Not only sugar and tooth decay are a problem for children's mouths. Lifestyle also influences and we refer to Child stress that can affect children's oral health in different ways.
The little ones do not have a job nor do they have to worry about paying the bills and yet a considerable number suffer stress. The causes that cause it? Academic pressures, separation of parents, absence of free time, social problems ... And in recent years it seems that the figures of child stress are increasing.
This also translates into a higher frequency of visits to the dentist. In these ways Children's stress and anxiety affects the health of their mouth:
Periodontal disease: inflammation and bleeding in the gums, a condition that can lead to the development of gingivitis (chronic gum disease). Children have brushing and increase the sensitivity of their teeth.
Bruxism, whereby children clench their jaws and grind their teeth unconsciously, especially at night, while they sleep. In the long run it can lead to wear of the teeth and even suffer from pain in the neck, head, jaw joints ...
Continued stress can cause tooth decay (Although the main cause is still the accumulation of bacterial plaque). This is explained because stress increases the acidity of saliva by attacking tooth enamel.
Mouth sores or sores that appear inside the mouth are also common in children undergoing nervousness. They can be located in the inner part of the lips, cheeks or tongue.
Commisural cheilitis or "nozzles", which consist of an acute or chronic infection of the mucous membranes of the corners of the lips. By unconsciously moistening the lips, the lesion worsens.
Cold sores, produced by a virus that inhabits the facial nerves and reproduces at times when the body has fewer defenses.
Halitosis or bad breath, caused by the digestive problems that stress entails.
It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and visit the dentist if we detect these problems intensely or continuously, as there could be certain complications and most have a treatment. But if we still do not influence the root of the problem, they can be repeated and lengthened over time.
If you think your child has any symptoms of stress, such as tiredness or fatigue, apathy, passivity, problems sleeping or at mealtime ... do not miss it. Stress affects children's mouths, to your emotional health and your well-being in general, so you have to try to minimize all these risks.
