It’s never good when a household is plagued with violence and hostility. When family members lash out at each other, it can cause stress, low self-esteem, and lasting emotional problems that can affect a child’s ability to relate to others for years to come. The damage doesn’t end there, either. Even your oral health can suffer when your home life isn’t what it should be.
This is according to a study conducted by New York University, which demonstrated that people from troubled households are at higher risk of cavities and missing teeth. Regardless of socioeconomic position, women exhibit an average of 3.5 more cavities, men an average of 5.3 more cavities, and children an average of 1.9 additional cavities for every above-average statistical increase in one parent’s aggression towards the other. This remained true for both verbal and physical domestic violence.
It is likely that this results from the toxic environment created by domestic violence. Such an environment is conducive of stress and depression, both of which undermine regular routines like brushing and flossing. Meanwhile, people in such situations have a tendency to turn to sugary comfort foods and binge eating.
If you live in a stressful household, do the right thing for your dental health. Our Auburn dentist can help to give you the proper dental care that you deserve.
