Long Island Periodontist Helps You Fight Stress Induced Gum Disease
Does life have you by the cuffs? In today’s economy many people are suffering financial woes they’d rather leave behind. What they may not realize is the impact those woes can have on their oral health. Prolonged stress can exacerbate gum disease, resulting in a trip to a Long Island Periodontist.
Stress has been proven to lead to a multitude of health problems including increased blood pressure, interrupted eating habits, weakened immune system and gum disease.
It’s not the body’s reaction to stress alone that leads to increased risks for gum disease. How individuals respond to their stressful situations also play an important role. For some increased use of tobacco or alcohol provides a reduction in their stress level, offering momentary peace. However both of these choices are proven risk factors for periodontal disease and should be considered closely when attempting to relieve stress.
In February 2009 a study was published in the Journal of Periodontology that revealed 56% of the participants disclosed neglecting their oral care as a result of heightened stress levels. Without regular and proper oral hygiene the risk for gum disease rises again.
Chronic stress levels has also been closely connected with cortisol, a hormone that has been connected with a more destructive form of gum disease than that merely caused by poor brushing. Stress in and of itself not only exacerbates gum disease but can in fact cause gum disease in a very destructive form.
Severe periodontal disease leads to bone loss and diminished tissue attachment around the teeth. In past research severe gum disease has also been connected to other, more serious health concerns such as heart disease and diabetes.
To protect your overall health consider making some adjustments to your lifestyle including:
- Regular exercise to help relieve stress
- Eating a healthy diet
- Drinking alcohol in moderation
- Limit tobacco use
- Maintain regular brushing and flossing
Gum disease is not joke and your stress level has a direct impact on the severity, or even the development of gum disease. Take the time to protect your oral health today.
If you’re looking for a reliable Long Island Periodontist Dr. Scharf can diagnose and treat all types of gum disease using a laser, not a scalpel. In times of high stress why add to your stress level with old fashioned treatment methods. Call Dr. Shcarf today at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com
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