The World Oral Health Day 2025 theme is ‘A Happy Mouth is... A Happy Mind,’ focusing on the connection between oral health and mental well-being. This day is a global healthcare event observed every year on the 20th of March to raise awareness about oral hygiene, its importance, and the factors that have contributed to oral diseases.

When the pressures of work, emotional challenges, and sudden life changes overwhelm our available resources, the resulting stress not only affects our mental well-being but also takes a toll on our oral health.

Recent insights from dental experts highlight a clear link between stress-related behaviours and oral conditions, from bruxism to thrush.

“Stress is often compounded by coping habits like bruxism, smoking, excessive alcohol and coffee consumption, as well as sleep-related issues such as insomnia and sleep apnoea,” said Dr Vipin Dehane, Head of Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Mulund.

Bruxism, characterized by the repetitive clenching and grinding of teeth, is a common manifestation of stress. This condition, which can occur during both wakefulness and sleep, results in prolonged tooth contact that wears down the tooth structure due to friction. Patients typically report symptoms like excessive tooth wear, grinding noises, intermittent jaw muscle fatigue or pain, and even temporal headaches. In severe cases, individuals may experience jaw locking, particularly upon waking.

Treatments aim to protect the teeth and restorations, reduce the frequency and intensity of grinding, and alleviate pain. Options include muscle relaxants, occlusal splints, and mandibular advancement devices (MAD).

Additionally, therapies such as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) for sleep disorders, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and stress management techniques play crucial roles in treatment.

Another oral health concern linked to stress is oral thrush, or candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by Candida Albicans.

Dr Dehane explains that oral thrush predominantly affects individuals who are immunocompromised, those undergoing chronic systemic steroid or antibiotic treatments, and people with high sugar intake or poor oral hygiene. High stress levels also contribute to the development of this condition.

Clinically, oral thrush may present as white or red lesions in the mouth. White lesions can appear as hyperplastic or atrophic patches, often affecting the tongue, buccal mucosa, and gums.

Erythematous lesions may occur in acute or chronic forms, sometimes accompanied by conditions such as median rhomboid glossitis or angular cheilitis. Patients with symptomatic oral thrush often experience a burning sensation, oral bleeding, and altered taste perception.

Diagnosis of candidiasis is typically based on a clinical examination, patient history, and assessment of risk factors. In cases where antifungal treatment is ineffective, cultures and sensitivity tests help guide further therapy.

For uncomplicated cases, topical antifungal treatments along with stringent oral hygiene practices are the first line of defence, while systemic antifungal therapy is reserved for resistant cases or individuals at risk of systemic infections.

Regular dental check-ups, combined with effective stress management and a commitment to proper oral hygiene, can significantly reduce the risk of stress-induced oral health issues. By addressing these lifestyle factors, individuals can protect their smiles and overall health for years to come.