Tooth decay in children linked to parental stress
A Ohio State University study has linked parental stress levels with tooth decay in children.
The study surveyed parents of young children, both of those with no cavities and of those with so much decay that anaesthesia was required. Parents’ income and education levels and whether they were single or had a partner were also recorded.
The study found that those parents with high levels of stress – as expected, those with low income or education levels, and single parents – had children with more decay. The scientists also found that having the child’s decay treated led to a decrease in parental stress.
The findings of the study were presented at the General Session of the International Association for Dental Research.
Also presented at the General Session was a study on the link between obesity and periodontal disease by the Harvard School of Public Health and the University of Puerto Rico.
Scientists from Nihon University in Tokyo also presented a study that suggests that periodontal disease may be a risk factor for reactivating latent HIV-1 in affected individuals.
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