With the increasing pressures in our everyday lives, stress has become a part and parcel of our health make-up. This however, is just a sign of poor living. Too much stress affects your whole body, including your mouth, teeth, and gums. So it’s important to de-stress if you wish to save yourself from dental problems. Watch out for the following signs and pay a quick visit to the dentist if they surface.

1. Bruxism – When you grind your teeth, due to some tension or pressure, it can lead to tooth damage. Show yourself to your dentist at once if you seem to be developing this dental problem. If diagnosed with bruxism, use a night guard to protect your jaw.
2. Lichen Planus – This dental problem is characterized by white lines, sores and ulcers in the oral cavity. This is usually the result of viral infections caused by stress. Your dentist can prescribe some medications to help you overcome this problem.
3. Poor Oral Hygiene – Being under extreme stress may affect your mood and cause you to skip brushing, flossing, and rinsing. If you don't take care of your mouth or teeth, your overall oral health can suffer.
4. Burning Mouth Syndrome – Are you experiencing a burning sensation on your tongue, lips, gums or palate? This is a result of excessive stress and must be avoided at any cost.
5. Dry Mouth – Much stress makes the mouth go dry. Now, when the mouth doesn't produce enough saliva, it increases the chances of tooth decay. Apart from stress, even some medications and treatments can cause a dry mouth.
6. Gum Disease – When long-term stress affects the immune systems, it often results in susceptibility to infections such as periodontal disease.
7. Canker Sores - Canker sores can sometimes be brought on by stress. Although harmless, these small sores can be painful and interrupt the healthy functioning of your body.
8. TMJ/TMD - Stress contributes to temporomandibular joint by encouraging tooth grinding, anxiety and depression.

One of the best ways to fight the negative effects of stress is to remove the source of stress. But if that's not possible, counselling, exercise such as yoga or jogging, relaxation or meditation or even massage and physical therapy may help reduce your tension. Also, always remember to use India's best toothpaste - Meswak to save yourself from any dental problem. Maintain proper oral hygiene and choose the right toothpaste to keep all dental problems away & ensure proper dental care.