PTSD Patients Face Challenges in Accessing Dental Care Due to Trauma Triggers
A recent analysis highlights the significant challenges faced by individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in accessing dental care. Studies, including one from Tel Aviv University, reveal that those suffering from PTSD, particularly veterans, exhibit poorer oral hygiene and higher rates of gum disease compared to the general population. This is attributed to factors such as teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and higher smoking rates, which are prevalent among PTSD sufferers. The avoidance of dental care is often due to the stress and hypersensitivity to stimuli experienced during dental procedures, which can trigger flashbacks and dissociation. The clinical environment, including the smells, noises, and the perceived loss of control during treatment, exacerbates these reactions. This avoidance leads to a cycle of neglect, worsening oral health, and further mental health deterioration. 
