Teens have a lot on their plates, so it’s easy for them to get stressed out. Constant stress affects the body in many ways, and their oral health might decline as a result. Here are some of the consequences of stress on a teen's oral health and why they should see a pediatric dentist.

How Stress Leads to Oral Health Issues in Teens

1. Neglect

Research shows that stress is common among teens and trying to juggle schoolwork, sports, and a social life can cause them to neglect dental care each day. Not brushing and flossing allows decay-causing bacteria to damage teeth, so your teen may develop a cavity or gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. 

When your teen is stressed out, gently remind them to brush and floss their teeth daily. They might appreciate an electric toothbrush or water flosser for an easier time taking care of their oral hygiene.

2. Unhealthy Habits

Stressed teens often turn to unhealthy habits like smoking, vaping, and eating junk food, all of which contribute to gum disease and tooth decay. Even nervous habits, like chewing a pencil or nail-biting, can have oral health consequences since they erode the protective enamel layers on their teeth and may even crack a tooth.

Some bad habits, like teeth grinding, develop subconsciously. Your child may clench or grind their teeth while asleep, which can lead to a painful jaw joint condition called TMJ. If they complain about jaw pain, schedule a dental exam. Their pediatric dentist may recommend wearing a custom mouth guard at night to control grinding.

3. Sores & Infections

High stress levels have been linked to a reduced immune system response. Your teen may develop white canker sores in their mouth or fever blisters if they contract the herpes simplex virus. When the body can’t fight off infections well, the sores may become infected by bacteria. Your teen will then be more susceptible to gum disease, so they need to prioritize stress control and diligent dental care.

To treat your teen’s oral health issues, turn to Pedodontic Associates on Oahu and Maui. Their pediatric dentists have cared for kids of all ages for over 25 years, providing a welcoming environment for patients to feel more comfortable. Call (808) 487-7933 for their Kahala office, (808) 487-7933 for Pearlridge, or (808) 877-0066 for Kahului to make an appointment. Explore their full scope of services on their website.