Periodontal Emotional Stress Syndrome: Review of Basic Concepts, Mechanism and Management

摘要

Stress is an unavoidable consequence of life. It is described as adverse emotions or reactions to unpleasant experiences. Thus, stress can be viewed as a process with both psychological and physiological components. The possible mechanisms by which psychosocial factors act on periodontal tissues are oral hygiene negligence, changes in dietary intake, smoking, bruxism, gingival circulation, alteration in salivary component and flow, hormonal changes and lowered host resistance. During stress hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system interact and release glucocorticoid which has myriad of effects that disrupt homeostasis and lead to increased susceptibility to periodontal diseases. The dental practioner, thus, may always decide to refer patients to appropriate professional for assistance and counselling. Therefore, reducing stress and improving coping strategies may improve the periodontal prognosis and treatment outcomes. The aim of this review is to provide an insight into the relationship between psychological stress and periodontal diseases.