Stress, Depression and Cortisol. Is our Periodontium vulnerable?

Research has suggested that stress, depression and ineffective coping may contribute to development of periodontitis. The aim was to find an association between perceived stress and periodontitis.30 participants were included and periodontal screening was carried out. Unstimulated saliva was collected from these patients and the cortisol analysis was carried out. With an increase in the severity of depression, the cortisol levels and the clinical parameters were seen to rise.