Recent studies show there may be a correlation between stress and periodontal disease. A literature review published in a recent issue of the Journal of Periodontology noted that 57 percent of the included studies showed a positive relationship between periodontal disease and psychological factors like stress, anxiety, depression and loneliness.

The President of the American Academy of Periodontology speculated that people who have high stress levels tend to increase bad habits—neglecting oral hygiene and perhaps increasing nicotine, alcohol or drug use—which may negatively affect their periodontal health.

Here’s another reason to decrease the stress in your life: keeping your smile healthy!