### How Stress Affects Your Oral Health and Tips to Prevent Damage Stress can have a significant impact on your mouth, teeth, and gums. Here are some common issues and tips to manage them: **Canker Sores**: These small, painful spots inside your mouth can be triggered by stress. Avoid spicy, hot, or acidic foods to reduce irritation. Most canker sores heal within a week to 10 days. Over-the-counter numbing medicines can provide relief, and your dentist may prescribe a steroid ointment if you get them often. **Cold Sores**: Caused by the herpes simplex virus, these fluid-filled blisters often appear around your lips and can be triggered by stress. They usually heal on their own within a week. Start treatment as soon as you notice one forming to prevent spreading the virus. Over-the-counter remedies and prescription antiviral drugs can help. **Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)**: Stress can cause you to clench and grind your teeth, leading to problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Your dentist may recommend a night guard or other appliance to help. Try to keep your teeth slightly apart during the day when not eating. **Neglecting Oral Hygiene**: High stress levels can lead to neglecting brushing, flossing, and rinsing, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Stress may also lead to unhealthy eating habits, like snacking on sugary foods, which can cause tooth decay. **Prevention Tips**: - Brush at least twice a day and floss daily. - Use an antibacterial mouth rinse twice a day. - Maintain a regular exercise routine to relieve stress and boost energy levels. - Eat a balanced diet to support overall health and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. By taking these steps, you can protect your oral health even when under stress.