Anxiety doesn’t just affect your thoughts. It can quietly impact your body in ways you might not expect, including your oral health.

Many patients delay or avoid dental visits due to anxiety. It could be the sounds, the setting, or a fear of discomfort. But the longer routine care is postponed, the more likely small issues become serious ones.

Beyond avoidance, anxiety itself can directly affect your teeth and gums. Elevated stress hormones like cortisol can contribute to inflammation, making the gums more vulnerable to irritation or infection. Some individuals also develop habits like teeth grinding or jaw clenching, often without noticing. Over time, this can wear down enamel, cause sensitivity, or even lead to TMJ-related pain.

Another common effect is dry mouth. Anxiety can reduce saliva flow, which is essential for neutralising acids, washing away food particles, and protecting enamel. Without it, the risk of cavities, bad breath, and gum disease increases.

These concerns are more common than many people realise, and they’re manageable with the right care.

At Dr. Salim Kapadia Dental Centre in Scarborough, we prioritise comfort as much as clinical care. We recognise the challenges that come with dental anxiety, and our team works closely with patients to create a calm, respectful, and supportive experience.