How PTSD Affects Oral Health – And Six Tips to Help

Today, I had the privilege of seeing a patient I hadn’t seen in a while. She shared with me that life had been really difficult lately. She’s been in therapy for PTSD, and the trauma she’s experienced had reached a point where it even caused neurological pain so severe that she had been bedridden for some time.

She said, “I’m so worried about what you’ll find today. The best I could do was put my toothbrush next to my bed, and I brush while lying down.”

Reading between the lines, I could feel the struggle and exhaustion she was enduring. I was both astonished and deeply moved by how hard it has been for her to take care of herself. But what struck me the most was the trust she showed in me by opening up about her challenges. She didn’t have to share the impact of PTSD on her oral health, but she did—showing immense resilience.

At Wholesome Smiles, we understand how deeply PTSD and trauma can affect every aspect of life, including oral health. That’s why we’re here to provide compassionate, non-judgmental care tailored to your needs, right in the comfort of your own home.

PTSD and Oral Health: The Hidden Connection

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) doesn’t just affect mental and emotional health—it can also impact physical health in subtle yet significant ways. Oral health is often overlooked in clinical settings, but the challenges PTSD presents can make regular care difficult to maintain.

Here are some of the most common ways PTSD can impact oral health:

1. Mental Barriers to Receiving Dental Care

For many people with PTSD, receiving oral care can feel incredibly daunting. PTSD often stems from traumatic experiences involving authority figures, and interacting with someone in a professional, clinical capacity can unintentionally trigger these feelings. These triggers can discourage people from seeking care, compounding oral health issues over time. The shame or discomfort they may feel about their oral health only makes it harder to address these challenges.

2. Medications and Dry Mouth

   
   

PTSD is often managed with medications like SSRIs, which can cause dry mouth as a side effect. Saliva is crucial for protecting teeth from decay, so a lack of saliva increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

3. Functional Shutdown and Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

   
   

PTSD can lead to emotional numbness or paralysis when stress becomes overwhelming. This "shutdown" may manifest physically as bruxism—teeth grinding or jaw clenching, often while sleeping. Bruxism can cause worn-down teeth, fractures, and increased sensitivity. Addressing this early can prevent long-term damage.

Custom made nightguard to prevent teeth wear and reduce TMJ pain

4. Coping Habits and Their Oral Health Impact

   
   

Coping with PTSD is exhausting. Many people rely on caffeinated or energy drinks to manage fatigue, but these beverages are acidic and sugar-laden, contributing to cavities and enamel erosion. Disrupted sleep patterns and heightened stress also worsen bruxism and other oral health challenges, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.

Simple Strategies to Support Oral Health

Managing oral health with PTSD doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some easy-to-implement tips:

• Drink More Water: Staying hydrated combats dry mouth and helps saliva production, which protects teeth.

• Switch to Green Tea: Green tea is a healthier alternative for energy drinks, offering a gentler and steadier caffeine boost and helps balance your mouth’s pH, supporting saliva health and reducing decay.

• Try Xylitol Mints: Xylitol is a natural sugar alternative that protects teeth by balancing saliva and encouraging remineralisation.

• Avoid Chewing Gum if You Grind Your Teeth: If you experience bruxism, opt for a night guard instead of chewing gum, which can worsen grinding.

• Use High-Fluoride Toothpaste or Mouthwash: Fluoride strengthens enamel, protecting teeth from cavities, especially if you experience dry mouth.

• Choose Sensory-Friendly Tools: A soft manual brush or an electric brush with a pressure sensor can prevent irritation or enamel wear. If you’re sensitive to textures or tastes, look for toothbrushes and toothpaste made for sensory comfort.

We’re Here to Support You

At Wholesome Smiles, we believe that oral health care should feel safe and judgment-free. Whether it’s been a year or a decade since your last appointment, we’re here to make the process as comfortable as possible.

We bring professional oral care directly to your doorstep, so you can receive the care you need in the familiarity of your own home. No matter your situation, our team is here to help you feel supported every step of the way.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward healthier teeth and gums, reach out to us today. You can send us an email to book your appointment—we’ll take it from there.