Anxiety disorders, which include phobias, panic attacks, generalized anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), are serious conditions with oral health implications, according to a report published in the November/December 2003 issue of General Dentistry, the clinical, peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).

"Oral health problems associated with anxiety disorders include canker sores, dry mouth, lichen planus (a common disease affecting the skin and oral mucous membranes), burning mouth syndrome and temporomandibular joint disorders," says lead report author James W. Little, DMD.

Patients with anxiety disorders may disregard their oral health altogether and are at an increased risk for cavities, periodontal (gum) disease and bruxism (teeth grinding). Anxiety could be caused by being anxious of a needle and complicated procedures.

"Tell your dentist about your anxiety disorder and what medications you are on," says AGD spokesperson Mike Bromberg, DDS.

Some anxiety medications decrease the mouth's ability to produce saliva, which can increase the risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease.