Prevalence of Stress-Related Oral Health Issues Rises Due to Pandemic

Dentists report treating more patients with stress-related oral health problems now than before the COVID-19 pandemic began, according to poll results compiled by the American Dental Association Health Policy Institute during the week of September 21. Data show the prevalence of the following dental problems increased: bruxism by 59.4%, chipped teeth by 53.4%, cracked teeth by 53.4%, and temporomandibular disorders by 53.4%. The prevalence of common oral diseases also increased: caries by 26.4% and periodontal diseases by 29.7%. In addition, the poll found that 99% of dental practices are open across the United States, and patient volumes are at approximately 80% of pre-pandemic levels. Read more here.