Peter’s story starts like many in London. Between rent, bills, and the general cost of living, he was careful with his budget. A checkup at the dentist? That could wait, especially since the last time he went, he was told he just had a "small cavity" that didn't seem urgent. He brushed twice a day, so how bad could it be?
The Man Who Bit Down on Anger: A NYC Tale of Stress and Toothache
In the heart of Manhattan, where the city’s pulse beats in honks and hurried footsteps, lived Leo. A project manager in a high-stakes tech firm, Leo was known for his sharp mind—and his short fuse. Deadlines, traffic, a delayed subway car—each sparked a low burn that he carried clenched in his jaw. His anger wasn’t explosive shouting; it was a silent, seething pressure cooker, and his teeth were bearing the brunt of the steam.
A concerning trend is emerging in dental clinics across Canada. Dentists are seeing a sharp rise in gum disease (periodontitis) in a surprisingly young demographic: teenagers and young adults from ages 16 to 28. While genetics and hygiene play a role, a primary culprit is clear: heavy smoking habits, including vaping and cannabis use, exacerbated by the immense pressures of modern life.
The lower anterior teeth show rough, yellowish/cream areas at the cervical (gumline) region of several incisors.
Most likely causes (photo only — no probing/X-ray): tartar/calculus buildup with superficial stain, and/or non-carious cervical wear (abrasion/erosion) exposing dentine. The rough texture could be hardened calculus or eroded tooth surface.
A Smile Can Hide a Fluttering Heart
Maria, a 58-year-old nanay from Quezon City, always prided herself on her resilience. She managed her household, doted on her apos, and navigated the busy streets of Manila with ease. But lately, a new, unsettling feeling had taken hold—a occasional, fluttering sensation in her chest, like a bird trapped in a cage. It was brief, but it scared her.
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