2010-05-21 09:40:24 - Startling fact about stress you did not know?
 Stress May Wreak Havoc on Your Mouth

 High Stress May Contribute to Gum Disease

 Too much stress may not only spoil your mood, it may also spoil your smile.

With the economic markets down in the dumps, job retrenchment & socio-political tension, it’s no wonder that stress has become a part of our daily lives.
There is mounting evidence that there’s a strong link between stress and gum disease, according to a new review of research on the issue. Researchers found 57% of recent studies reviewed showed a positive relationship between gum disease and stress and related psychological symptoms like distress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Although it’s difficult to pinpoint the negative effects of stress on your gums, researchers say the studies suggest that elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol may be involved. In addition, stress may make people more lax about their oral health habits.

According to Harvard

University research if you get angry your gums will suffer. Stress can lead to bruxism, dry mouth, burning mouth syndrome, lichen planus.

“Individuals with high stress levels tend to increase their bad habits, which can be harmful to periodontal health. They are less attentive to their oral hygiene and may increase their use of nicotine, alcohol, or drugs,” says. Patients should seek healthy ways to relieve stress through exercise, balanced eating, plenty of sleep, and maintaining a positive mental attitude. Patients who minimize stress may be at less risk for periodontal diseases.

If untreated, stress related gum disease can lead to loss of teeth as well as bone in the jaw. Symptoms include tender, bleeding gums, swollen gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.
Stress related Gum disease falls in the list of diseases caused by stress, along with a million other disorders. This is because, according to research, stress makes it more difficult for the body to fight off infection.

Self Diagnosis Tips
• Persistent bad breath
• Swollen or red gums
• Bleeding, tender gum tissue
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
Prevention Tips
Just take care of your teeth, starting now. Don't wait!
• Brush twice a day for at least 3 minutes each time and floss daily. If you're not sure whether you're brushing or flossing properly, your dentist or dental hygienist can show you the best techniques.
• Always brush with a toothpaste that contains fluoride
• Use a toothbrush with soft, polished bristles, as these are less likely to irritate or injure gum tissue. Be sure to replace your toothbrush at least every 3 to 4 months - a worn-out toothbrush can injure your gums. (Some toothbrush brands contain color indicators on the bristles to remind you to replace them when they become worn.)
• Eat a healthy diet. Avoid snacks and junk foods packed with sugar that plaque-causing bacteria love to feed on.
• Don't smoke! Cigarettes and chewing tobacco cause mouth irritation and are very unhealthy for gums and teeth.
• Regular dental care is extremely important in helping to keep your mouth healthy. Visit your dentist for routine care - especially cleaning - at least twice a year. Your dentist can remove hardened plaque and any tartar that you're not getting to with brushing or flossing.
• Rinse thoroughly after every meal
• Try these healthy snacks that don't attack your teeth:
- Celery & carrot snacks with hommous or avocado dip
-Vegemite crackers with cheese
- Plain yoghurt, fresh fruit and nuts

With a little awareness and knowledge on the subject of oral care, there could be some prettier smiles around the world and less misery from tooth decay.

For further information kindly contact Dentzz Dental Care Centres on 23525458 / 23525438 / 9819916333 or visit our website www.dentzzdental.com & view the Smile Gallery on www.dentzzdental.com

ABOUT DR.SHANTANU JARADI:
Dr. Shantanu Jaradi, an aesthetic dentist, performs complex smile makeover and smile enhancement cases. He is also the Director of the state of the art Dentzz Dental Care Centres at Peddar Road,Bandra and Lokhandwala, Mumbai, in which all basic to advanced dental procedures are carried out under one roof.