How can managing stress help prevent gingivitis?

Stress has long been associated with playing a role in the onset of disease, from the common cold to heart disease. A new study at Carnegie Mellon University found that stress dampens the early immune response, which is important for healing. At the same time stress can lead to more long-term chronic inflammation. 

Periodontal disease is a product of long-term chronic inflammation. It has been observed that people under stress often experience gingivitis or other gum problems.

There is no data showing that managing stress can alleviate gum problems, but managing stress has been show to help people lower blood pressure and generally improve well-being so overall it's a benefit to health. 

Another factor to consider, being under stress can lead to some unhealthy behaviors such as increased smoking, alcohol consumption, overeating, inactivity and more. Many of these can impact oral health.

The bottom line; if you are under stress, try some proven strategies for managing it such as meditation, exercise, deep breathing, or getting support from friends and family. Overall, it will be good for both your oral health and general health.

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the tissue in the mouth, the gums. It is a form of periodontal disease and is related to long-term plaque formation on the teeth.

Stress has the following effects (related to the hormones and chemicals released as a result):

• Increasing inflammation
• Decreasing immune function
• Hormonal changes
• Weight gain and cravings
• Negative life habits (stress triggers sweet cravings trumping our health efforts)
• Blood sugar deregulation

Plaque is formed by bacteria, mucus, and food debris that develop on your teeth. It is associated with chronic infections (systemic), pregnancy (hormones), and blood sugar issues. As noted above, stress results in all three of these areas.

Furthermore, it affects your decisions for self-care and food chooses. It is well known that sugar and processed foods can create an imbalance in the pH and microflora of the mouth, affecting bacterial growth.