Stress and dental health at college: a guide

College is a time of both excitement and high stress. Between academics, social life, and new responsibilities, many students may not realize that stress can impact more than just their mental well-being—it can also affect their oral health. Here’s how stress plays a role and why it’s important for college students to stay on top of their dental care.

What happens when you don't care of your teeth?

With the new independence of college life, some students may struggle to prioritize oral health. Unhealthy habits like skipping brushing, indulging in sugary snacks, and drinking caffeine-heavy energy drinks can all lead to common oral health issues, such as:

1. Tooth decay and cavities: Poor nutrition and frequent snacking increase the risk of cavities and tooth decay
2. Gum disease: Inconsistent oral hygiene, combined with stress-related inflammation, can cause gum issues. One review of multiple studies found that pre-existing periodontitis (severe gum disease) increased a person's risk of heart disease by 20%.
3. Dry mouth: Medications for anxiety or depression can cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
4. Wisdom teeth eruption: College age is prime time for wisdom tooth eruption. Consider scheduling extractions during breaks if recommended, as impacted or painful wisdom teeth can disrupt daily life.
5. Stress and bruxism: College stress can lead to teeth grinding, known as bruxism, which causes symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, and worn teeth. Addressing these symptoms early can prevent long-term damage.

Tobacco use in college

Tobacco use—whether through smoking, vaping, or smokeless products—has significant, long-lasting effects on oral health, and it’s an issue that’s particularly prevalent among college-aged individuals. The effects on your oral health can be severe, including an increased risk of oral cancer. There are resources available on many campuses to help students quit and making that change will improve both your oral and overall health.

Tips on how to take care of your teeth and overall health in college

Balancing oral health and overall health with a busy college schedule isn’t easy, but a few consistent habits can make a big difference. Here are some tips to help college students stay healthy—both mentally and physically—while protecting their oral health:

Dental care tips

1. Choose healthier snacks: Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Choose healthier options like fruit, unsweetened yogurt, or nuts to reduce the risk of cavities. Drinking water throughout the day can also help wash away bacteria and keep your mouth hydrated.
2. Schedule regular dental checkups: Having a dentist monitor your oral health can help catch issues early. This is especially important if you’re experiencing stress-related issues like grinding, as your dentist can recommend solutions like mouthguards.
3. Stock up on essentials Pack extra toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash to encourage daily oral care.

Good oral health at college begins before your first day

Before ever moving to campus, you can help set your new student up for success. It’s essential to get a dental check-up to catch any issues early and avoid surprises during the semester. Here are a few other steps students can take to be prepared:

Overall health tips

1. Stick to a routine: Brush twice a day and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque. Making time for these basics, even during exam season, can prevent decay and gum issues.
2. Get regular excercise and sleep: Physical activity and adequate sleep are essential for managing stress and supporting your immune system. These habits also help reduce the likelihood of stress-induced habits like grinding your teeth.
3. Practice stress-relief technique: Meditation, deep breathing, or even a 10-minute walk can help ease stress and reduce its impact on your health. Being mindful of stress and actively managing it can protect both your mental and oral health.
4. Schedule a check-up: Make sure any potential health concerns, including dental health, mental health, and physical health, are addressed by a professional health provider. Most campuses have campus health resources that you can utilize to establish care.

Dental benefits for college students

Staying on top of oral health is essential, but many students may not seek care due to a lack of coverage or understanding of their options. For students, dental coverage is a practical and low-cost solution that provides access to preventive care and treatments that catch and address issues early, including stress-related problems like gum inflammation and teeth grinding.

Though costs may vary, monthly premiums for a Delta Dental - Basic Plan can be as low as $31 – less than the average cost of a tank of gas. And if your employer provides dental benefits, connect with your HR team to learn about how to make sure eligible dependents are added to your plan.

Takeaways for healthier smiles during college

College students face unique pressures, but by managing stress and maintaining a solid oral hygiene routine, they can protect their health and well-being. Insurance coverage plays a key role in supporting students’ health journeys, enabling them to access preventive care and treatment when they need it most.