Aug. 24 (iVillage Total Health) -- People who are constantly under stress and battle anxiety, depression and other emotional difficulties may look no farther than their own mouths to discover the effect.

A new study by Brazilian researchers published in the August issue of the Journal of Periodontology (JOP) draws a strong correlation between gum or periodontal disease and psychosocial conditions and stress. Gum diseases may cause inflammation and infection of the gums, tissues and bones supporting the teeth. If left untreated, severe cases can lead to permanent loss of teeth.

"More research is needed to determine the definitive relationship between stress and periodontal diseases," Daiane Peruzzo, the study's lead author, said in a press release. "However, patients who minimize stress may be at less risk for periodontal diseases."

Peruzzo and her team reviewed 14 studies published in dental journals between 1990 and 2006. They found that a majority (57.1 percent) of the studies analyzed found a connection between stress (or psychosocial disorders) and gum disease.

The July JOP issue featured a separate study that attempted to explain possible reasons for the stress-gum disease connection. Researchers said that increased levels of cortisol, a hormone released into the bloodstream at times of stress, may trigger destructive action in the gums and jaw bone.

"Individuals with high stress levels tend to increase their bad habits, which can be harmful to periodontal health," Dr. Preston D. Miller, the president of the American Academy of Periodontology, said in a press release. "Patients should seek healthy ways to relieve stress through exercise, balanced eating, plenty of sleep and maintaining a positive mental attitude."

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