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June is PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of post-traumatic stress disorder and supporting those affected.
While PTSD is often associated with emotional and psychological challenges, its impact extends to various aspects of physical health, including oral health. This blog explores the connection between PTSD and oral health, highlighting how trauma can influence dental habits and overall oral well-being.
Understanding PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Beyond these psychological symptoms, PTSD can lead to behavioral changes that adversely affect physical health, including oral hygiene practices.
Individuals with PTSD may develop coping mechanisms or habits that inadvertently harm their oral health. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for providing comprehensive care and support to those affected.
The Impact of PTSD on Oral Health
Neglecting Oral Hygiene
PTSD can lead to depression and a lack of motivation, causing individuals to neglect daily routines, including oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing. This neglect increases the risk of dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Stress and anxiety associated with PTSD can result in bruxism, the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth. This habit can cause tooth wear, fractures, jaw pain, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Night guards are often recommended to mitigate these effects.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Medications commonly prescribed for PTSD, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Saliva is essential for neutralizing acids and protecting teeth; its absence can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Dietary Habits
Individuals with PTSD may resort to comfort eating, often choosing sugary or acidic foods and beverages. Frequent consumption of such items can erode tooth enamel and promote cavities. Additionally, using teeth as tools or chewing on non-food items, like nails or ice, can cause physical damage to teeth.
Avoidance of Dental Care
Dental environments can be triggering for those with PTSD, especially if their trauma is related to medical procedures. This can lead to dental anxiety or phobia, causing individuals to avoid regular dental check-ups and treatments, exacerbating oral health issues.
Strategies for Managing Oral Health with PTSD
1. Establish a Routine
Creating a structured daily routine that includes oral hygiene can help individuals maintain consistent care. Setting reminders or using apps can be beneficial in establishing these habits.
2. Seek Trauma-Informed Dental Care
Finding dental professionals trained in trauma-informed care can make dental visits more comfortable. These providers are sensitive to the needs of patients with PTSD and can adapt their approach to minimize triggers. If you can’t find a dentist that states they offer support for PTSD specifically, set up a consultation and explain your needs to the dentist. You may want to look for dentists that state they are “Gentle dentists” or work with patients that have “dental anxiety.”
3. Use Protective Appliances
For those experiencing bruxism, wearing a custom-fitted night guard can protect teeth from damage. Talk to your dentist.
4. Stay Hydrated and Manage Dry Mouth
Drinking water regularly and using saliva substitutes can alleviate dry mouth symptoms. Chewing sugar-free gum can also stimulate saliva production.
5. Maintain a Balanced Diet
Limiting sugary and acidic foods can protect tooth enamel. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall and oral health.
Accessing Affordable Dental Care
PTSD’s impact on oral health is significant, influencing behaviors and habits that can lead to dental problems. Awareness of these connections is essential for individuals and healthcare providers. By adopting trauma-informed approaches and supportive strategies, it’s possible to mitigate these effects and promote better oral health outcomes for those living with PTSD.
If you’ve been skipping regular checkups and cleanings due to budget concerns and no dental insurance, consider joining a dental savings plan. Plan members report average savings of about 50%* on their dental costs.
Dental plans are especially good for people who have existing dental health issues such as cracked, broken, infected or missing teeth, as dental insurance typically does not cover treatment for existing oral health problems. But dental savings plans do offer a straightforward way to access discounted rates without waiting periods or exclusions – and could be the key to getting the care you need now.
*Discount Health Program consumer and provider surveys indicate average savings of 50%. Savings may vary by provider, location, and plan.
*Discount Health Program consumer and provider surveys indicate average savings of 50%. Savings may vary by provider, location, and plan.
