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REVIEW PAPER
The Influence of chronic stress on oral health: a literature review
 
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1
Dental Office, Corten Dental, Poland
 
2
Orthodontic Office, NZOZ Ortomix, Poland
 
3
Medical University of Lublin, Student Research Group at the Chair and Department of Oral Medicine, Poland
 
4
Medical Department, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
 
5
Dental Office, Biniek Clinic, Poland
 
 
Submission date: 2025-01-26
 
 
Final revision date: 2025-03-31
 
 
Acceptance date: 2025-03-31
 
 
Publication date: 2025-06-30
 
 
Corresponding author
Oskar Dominik Tokarczuk   

Orthodontic Office, NZOZ Ortomix, Bursaki 25, 20-150 Lublin
 
 
LW 2025;103(2):121-124
 
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ABSTRACT
Chronic stress, particularly in the context of post-traumatic stress disorder, has significant implications for oral health due to its multifaceted physiological, psychological, and behavioral effects. This review outlines the key mechanisms and clinical consequences of chronic stress on oral health outcomes, drawing on findings from a systematic review of 16 studies. Post-traumatic stress disorder has been strongly associated with an increased prevalence of periodontitis, bruxism, xerostomia, and temporomandibular disorders. Chronic activation of the stress response disrupts autonomic regulation and systemic immune function, exacerbating oral health conditions. Behavioral factors such as poor oral hygiene and increased tobacco use further contribute to periodontal disease, while psychological stress amplifies pain perception in conditions like temporomandibular disorders and chronic orofacial pain. Pharmacological treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, while effective in managing psychological symptoms, frequently cause hyposalivation, leading to xerostomia and increased risk of dental caries and periodontal disease. Bruxism, prevalent among individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder, is strongly linked to elevated stress levels, resulting in significant wear and damage to teeth, as well as contributing to orofacial pain and temporomandibular disorders. Insomnia and sleep disturbances, common among post-traumatic stress disorder sufferers, impair immune function and tissue regeneration, further heightening susceptibility to oral infections and delaying wound healing. The bidirectional relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder and chronic orofacial pain underscores the need for integrated care that addresses both physical and psychological health. Multidisciplinary approaches incorporating trauma-informed care and tailored oral health interventions are critical for mitigating the oral health challenges faced by individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder. These strategies not only improve oral health outcomes but also enhance overall well-being by addressing systemic inflammation and psychological distress. Future research should focus on optimizing treatment protocols and fostering collaboration between dental and mental health professionals.
eISSN:1509-5754
ISSN:0024-0745
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