PTSD Linked To Teeth Damage
A recent study suggests that individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more than three times as likely to experience bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding.
Conducted with 76 Brazilian adults, half diagnosed with PTSD and the other half without the condition, the study revealed a significantly higher prevalence of daytime teeth grinding among those with PTSD.
Dr. Ana Cristina de Oliveira Solis from the University of Sao Paulo, the lead author of the study, emphasized the oral manifestations of PTSD, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts among psychiatrists, psychologists, and dentists in both screening and treating these health conditions.
While it is estimated that 8% to 30% of individuals grind their teeth during waking hours, the impact of PTSD on oral health remains relatively unexplored. The study focused on assessing the oral health of all participants, with particular attention to any signs of bruxism and associated pain.
Interestingly, the study found no significant association between oral hygiene and bruxism. However, individuals with PTSD reported higher levels of pain following dental examinations, indicating a potential link between bruxism, dental pain, and underlying psychiatric conditions like PTSD.
Given these findings, the research team suggests that bruxism and heightened dental pain could serve as indicators of an underlying psychiatric issue such as PTSD. Therefore, integrating psychiatric screening into routine patient care and encouraging individuals with PTSD to seek therapeutic support are crucial steps in addressing these interconnected health concerns.
Additionally, psychiatrists diagnosing PTSD should consider referring patients to dentists if symptoms of bruxism or jaw pain arise, ensuring comprehensive care for individuals managing PTSD and its associated oral health implications.
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