If you were wondering how stress and root canal are correlated, then you are in the right place. Everyone has to deal with at least a bit of stress at some point, and this may be evident in many ways. Some can handle the minor rush of anxiety and nervousness that shows through constant nail biting or perpetual foot-tapping. For others, their teeth suffer the most. The stress they endure adversely effects their teeth to the point where a root canal might be necessary to save their smile. This article focuses on the effects of stress on the smile and what you can do to prevent them.
The body responds to stress in many ways, including teeth grinding –– a condition known as bruxism. Most people pay no attention to the activity and some engage in it even while sleeping. Bruxism is so rampant, that according to the American Sleep Association, up to 10 percent of Americans engage in it every night.
With time, teeth grinding or bruxism can cause severe deterioration of the enamel, causing the teeth to become weak and sensitive. Leaving the teeth untreated can lead to teeth fracture, revealing the sensitive tooth pulp located in the core of the tooth. Once the pulp is exposed, it is only a matter of time before it becomes infected by bacteria, which can lead to severe tooth pain. This infection can only be treated with a root canal.
There have been situations where stress has been the direct cause of tooth pain, even though the teeth were intact. This usually occurs when there is serious tension in the muscles of the neck and upper back, to the point where the jaws are affected. This could transfer pain to the teeth. Many people eventually undergo root canal due to the pain, though the issue did not originate from the teeth.
Well, since no one is exempt from stress, how can one ensure that it does not lead to a root canal?
Upon suspicion of teeth grinding, patients should contact a dentist as soon as possible for treatment. For bruxism, the dentist will create a custom-made mouthguard that will help protect the teeth during sleep.
General stress is controllable with some stress-reducing activities. This may include taking a few minutes per day to sit and engage in some breathing exercises. Patients can also go for a relaxing massage to ease the muscle tension in that part of the body before it affects other parts.
The fact is that stress has become a part of our lives, but it does not mean it has to affect the teeth. Be sure to visit your dentist if you experience tooth pain or suspect tooth grinding. You should also make a conscious effort to reduce the stress in your life in whatever ways possible. By doing that, you will be able to preserve your smile and avoid ever needing a root canal treatment.
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