Periodontal diseases are common chronic inflammatory diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms colonizing the subgingival area and inducing local and systemic elevations of pro-inflammatory cytokines resulting in tissue destruction. One of them, psychological stress, has been proposed to have a negative impact on the results of periodontal therapy. Patients with periodontal illnesses have higher levels of stress markers in their blood and saliva. These stress markers can affect the course of the disease by altering the inflammatory response and changing the makeup of the dental biofilm, among other processes. This review seeks to shed light on the connection between periodontal diseases and psychological stress.
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