Caregivers of those under psychological or physical stress, as well as those with the condition themselves, should not overlook their oral health, according to a study by the American Academy of Periodontology, Chicago.

Caregivers of those under psychological or physical stress, as well as those with the condition themselves, should not overlook their oral health, according to a study by the American Academy of Periodontology, Chicago. Results suggest that being a caregiver to relatives with dementia, hypercertisolemia (overproduction of cortisol), or stress were associated with elevated plaque levels and increased gingival bleeding in adults aged 50 and older. "Short-term psychological stress was a risk indicator to elevated plaque levels and long-term physical stress was a risk indicator to gingivitis," the study maintains.