Stress measures as predictors of periodontal disease - a preliminary communication.

The article examines factors, which increase the probability of periodontal disease in individuals. One factor, which is known to affect individual's susceptibility to disease, is stress. Since stress-related illnesses associated with the work place are commonly experienced and occupational stress is quantifiable, it seemed appropriate to investigate the effect of occupational stress upon periodontal health. According to findings, 88% of individuals attended the dentist every six months whereas 88% brushed their teeth at least twice a day. Significant increases in mean plaque score, sub-gingival calculus, bleeding on probing and pocket depth were demonstrated.