Dr. Derek B. Hauser Can Help with Stress-Induced Dental Problems

Too much stress can affect the entire body, including the teeth and gums. Potential consequences include mouth sores, like cold sores and canker sores, grinding or clenching the teeth, gum disease, bad habits, such as chewing on ice, and depression.

Dr. Derek B. Hauser, a leading family dentist in Riverside County, can help with your stress-induced dental problems. Dr. Hauser has more than 20 years of experience fulfilling the dental needs of his patients. If you’re looking for a new Lake Elsinore cosmetic dentist, Contact Lakefront Family Dentistry at (951) 244-9495 or Request an Appointment Online Today!

Dr. Derek B. Hauser, DDS, at Lakefront Family Dentistry

Mouth Sores

Small ulcers with a grayish or white base that are bordered in red are known as canker sores and can appear inside the mouth in pairs or clusters. Canker sores do not have one specific cause, but researchers believe that problems with the immune system, viruses or bacteria could be the problem. Stress, along with allergies and fatigue, can also increase the chance of getting these sores; however, canker sores are not contagious.

To reduce the irritation of canker sores, you should avoid hot, spicy food or foods that are high in acid content, like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Canker sores usually disappear within a weeks’ time, but some may take up to 10 days to fully vanish. Over-the-counter, topical anesthetics can help relive any pain.

Fever blisters, or cold sores, are contagious and are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are fluid-filled blisters, and they often appear on the lips. Cold sores can also be found around the chin or under the nose.

Emotional upset, sunburn, fever or skin abrasion can trigger cold sores.

Teeth Grinding

Stress can cause patients to grind and clench teeth, and oftentimes, this happens subconsciously. Another term for teeth grinding is “bruxism.”

If you are a teeth grinder, stress will only make the habit worse. Grinding your teeth may also lead to problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is located in front of the ear where the lower jaw and skull meet.

Your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth from grinding, which should be worn when you sleep.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Stress can also affect your mood, which can in turn affect your dental hygiene routine.

If a patient fails to properly take care of his or her mouth, overall health may suffer. For those with gum disease, skipping the daily oral-care regime will only make the condition worse. If the mouth is relatively healthy, then falling short on responsible hygiene may lead to cavities or gum disease.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice per day for at least two minutes each time. Patients should also use floss after eating to help maintain a healthier, cleaner mouth. Another way to achieve a cleaner mouth is to use an electronic toothbrush.

Unhealthy eating habits are also linked to stress. Snacking on sugary foods or drinks will put patients at risk for tooth decay, gingivitis and other problems.

To prevent tooth decay and any other problems that may occur due to poor oral hygiene, visit an established dentist twice per year for a professional cleaning.

Gum Disease

Short-term stress can actually cause more dental plaque to form. Long-term stress causes the gums to bleed and can potentially lead to gingivitis, which can progress to serious gum disease.

By scheduling regular cleanings with an experienced dentist, maintaining a balanced diet and brushing twice per day, patients can prevent gum disease.

A Visit to Dr. Derek B. Hauser Can Prevent Anxiety

Not only will Dr. Hauser and his staff cater to each patient’s dental needs, but he will also meet with visitors one-on-one to discuss responsible oral-care habits. For example, Dr. Hauser recommends that his patients use Sonicare electronic toothbrushes to prevent plaque and cavities. To help in the quest for healthy teeth, Lakefront Family Dentistry conveniently carries many of the popular Sonicare models in our office.

In addition to preventative tips and teeth cleanings, Lakefront Family Dentistry offers several other cosmetic services. If you’re looking for a new Lake Elsinore cosmetic dentist, Contact Lakefront Family Dentistry at (951) 244-9495 or Request an Appointment Online Today!