Stress and Tooth Loss

You’ve probably heard that stress is bad for your health, and at Chapel Street Dental, we want you to know that your oral health is no exception. Although we can treat tooth damage, patients need to understand the effects of stress so they can take preventive action.

Stress harms the mouth through inflammation and by triggering destructive behaviors. People who are under prolonged stress have weaker immune systems. Less able to fight off bacterial infection, they are at risk for gingivitis, which causes the gums to bleed. Periodontal disease, the more advanced form of gingivitis, causes erosion to tooth roots and their supporting bone structure.

Besides the hormonal effect, stress is also responsible for harmful attempts at self-soothing, such as jaw clenching and nighttime teeth grinding (called bruxism). The increased pressure on the teeth can cause them to crack, and in the worst cases, they can even break. It can also cause them to migrate. While psychological counseling may be necessary to deal with the root cause of bruxism or inflammation, we can still provide our patients with some protection. Night guards prevent the jaw from moving while the wearer is asleep, and we provide periodontal therapy to combat gingivitis.

Chapel Street Dental is located at 806 Chapel St, New Haven, Connecticut, 06510. To schedule an appointment, call 203-772-1000 or visit New Haven Dental and fill out a contact form.

 

Gingivitis

If you notice a bit of blood in the sink when you brush and floss, this is a common sign of gingivitis. You can prevent gingivitis by practicing proper oral care habits such as brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes and flossing at least once a day. If you floss your teeth every day for one week, you’ll notice that the blood will disappear. Gingivitis is the only stage of periodontal disease that can be reversed but our doctors at Chapel Street Dental would rather you take preventive measures.

The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene habits. Perhaps you find any excuse you can to avoid brushing your teeth in the morning, afternoon, or before bed. Gingivitis can cause swollen and puffy gums, dark red gums, bad breath, and gums that bleed easily. The best thing you can do in addition to improving your oral care routine is to visit us twice a year for dental checkups.

If you have questions or concerns regarding periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.newhavendentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Chapel Street Dental in New Haven, CT, call 203-772-1000.