Most people know that stress causes high blood pressure, insomnia, fatigue, heart palpitations and several other health issues, but many do not realize it can also affect their mouth and jaw. If you suffer from any of the following oral health problems, stress could be the source of your problems. Canker Sores A canker sore is a tiny ulcer in the mouth that is not contagious, but can be painful. In many cases, they are caused when you accidentally bite your cheek or because you brush your teeth too often or too hard, but stress can also be a culprit. The next time you have one, consider your stress levels and determine if there is a correlation. Bruxism Bruxism is very common and more often known as grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw. While it is often caused by sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, it is also common in people who are overly stressed. Many people are not aware they are grinding or clenching their teeth, but it is important to seek a professional if you have symptoms. Symptoms of bruxism include flat teeth, indentations in the tongue and extremely sensitive teeth, which occurs because grinding wears down the enamel. Gum Disease Studies at several prominent universities across the United States have shown that stress can play a role in the development and progression of gum disease. The more stress you have, the more likely your gum disease is to worsen. While you cannot always get rid of stress, you can see a periodontist to help you manage the symptoms of periodontal disease, which include red or sensitive gums, bleeding while brushing teeth or the appearance of receding gums. Treating Oral Health Problems Related to Stress If you are suffering from stress in Harrisonburg, VA, call Dr. Steven Saunders, Dr. Victor Saunders or Dr. Jeff Dickson at 540-434-8575. If you need help for oral health problems related to stress in Winchester,VA, contact us at 540-662-6400.