Expert Insights from Dr. Keith Schwartz
of Keith L. Schwartz DMD & Associates
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a perfect time to recognize how stress affects not just your mind and body, but also your oral health. At Keith L. Schwartz DMD & Associates in Coral Springs, we’ve seen firsthand how chronic stress can take a toll on our patients’ teeth and gums. From teeth grinding to gum disease, stress can manifest in ways many people overlook.
Dr. Keith Schwartz is here to explain how stress and oral health are connected, and more importantly, what you can do to manage both.
How Stress Impacts Your Oral Health
While stress is commonly linked to issues like headaches, fatigue, and sleep disruption, it also influences your mouth in significant ways. Here are the most common oral health problems linked to elevated stress:
1. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Many Coral Springs patients grind their teeth at night without even realizing it. This involuntary habit, often triggered by stress or anxiety, can lead to:
- Worn-down enamel
- Tooth sensitivity
- Jaw pain
- Headaches
- Cracked or chipped teeth
Dr. Schwartz often diagnoses bruxism during regular check-ups, and he may recommend a custom night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
2. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ/TMD)
Stress can cause you to clench your jaw throughout the day or night, which strains the temporomandibular joints. TMJ symptoms can include:
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth
- Pain around the jaw and ears
- Difficulty chewing or opening wide
- Frequent tension headaches
At Keith L. Schwartz DMD & Associates, we offer non-invasive TMJ treatments, including bite adjustments and custom oral appliances to relieve jaw tension.
3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
High-stress levels can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. This condition can make it harder to neutralize acids, increasing the risk of:
- Tooth decay
- Gum infections
- Bad breath
Dr. Schwartz can recommend hydrating oral rinses or prescribe medications that promote saliva flow.
4. Gum Disease
Stress weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off the bacteria that cause gum infections. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has even been linked to other systemic conditions like heart disease.
Regular professional cleanings at our Coral Springs office can prevent gum disease from progressing—and we’ll also teach you how to care for your gums at home.
How to Break the Stress-Oral Health Cycle
The good news? There are practical steps you can take to manage both your stress and its impact on your oral health:
Prioritize Daily Oral Hygiene
No matter how busy or overwhelmed you feel, brushing twice daily and flossing once a day can go a long way in protecting your teeth and gums. Set reminders or build your oral hygiene routine into your daily schedule to keep it consistent.
Manage Stress Proactively
You don’t need to eliminate stress—just learn to manage it. Dr. Schwartz recommends trying:
- Deep breathing exercises or meditation
- Walking or light physical activity
- Talking to a mental health professional
- Limiting caffeine and sugar
Small changes can have a big impact on both your mood and your oral health.
Schedule Regular Dental Visits
One of the most effective ways to stay ahead of stress-related oral health issues is to visit Keith L. Schwartz DMD & Associates for regular check-ups. Our Coral Springs dental team can catch the early signs of grinding, gum disease, or TMJ and guide you through personalized treatments before things get worse.
Why Coral Springs Trusts Keith L. Schwartz DMD & Associates
Our practice is more than just a dental office—we’re a partner in your health and well-being. We take a whole-person approach to care, understanding that your oral health is closely tied to your lifestyle, habits, and stress levels.
Dr. Schwartz and our caring team provide gentle, thorough care to patients from Coral Springs, Parkland, Margate, and surrounding communities. Whether you’re coming in for a routine cleaning or need help managing stress-related symptoms, we’re here to support you with advanced tools, a personalized approach, and a warm, welcoming environment.
Conclusion
This May, as you reflect on your mental health during Stress Awareness Month, don’t forget to consider how stress might be affecting your smile. If you’re grinding your teeth, feeling jaw pain, or noticing changes in your oral health, don’t wait. Contact Keith L. Schwartz DMD & Associates today to schedule your exam. Let us help you protect your smile—and your peace of mind.
