Top 7 Impacts Of Oral Health On Mental Health
Is there a link between dental and mental health?
Our oral health has far-reaching consequences that extend well beyond our mouth. And our mental health has far-reaching consequences that extend beyond our heads.
Find out more about dental health effects on mental health and vice versa in the sections below.
7 Impacts of oral health on mental health
Many people feel that oral health is linked to bodily health; however, this is not always the case. Its impact on mental illness is often overlooked.
For the following reasons, people with mental illnesses, particularly those with severe mental conditions, are more likely to have poor oral health.
- Oral hygiene is often overlooked and undervalued.
- Regularly consuming large amounts of alcohol and smoking, and using other substances.
- Unhealthy food consumption.
- Tooth enamel is damaged due to overbrushing due to compulsion.
- Fear of the dentist leads to more serious oral health problems.
- Depression and anxiety make you more sensitive to pain.
- Dry mouth, which usually results in bad breath.
How does mental health lead to oral problems?
As previously said, persons with mental illnesses are more likely to have dental problems because they neglect their oral hygiene and consume a lot of sugary foods and beverages.
This helps explain why tooth infection is so frequent in persons who are depressed. Furthermore, mental-health drugs may have an influence on a person’s dental health.
They have several adverse effects, such as dry mouth, leading to oral health problems. Saliva is rich in minerals that help keep your teeth’ enamel robust.
As a result, a lack of saliva puts you vulnerable to gum disease and tooth decay.
Ways to protect your oral and mental health
Because the relationship is two-way, it is critical to safeguard your dental and mental health.
We will leave any recommendations on maintaining your mental health to them because we are not mental health professionals.
However, as oral health professional, we can help you maintain your optimum dental health for the rest of your life if you follow our suggestions.
Oral health preventive care
- Brush your teeth using a quality toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.
- Floss your teeth every day.
- Use a mouthwash that eliminates hazardous germs while also rinsing away stuck debris.
- Stop smoking.
- Reduce or quit alcohol consumption.
- Cut off your consumption of sugary foods and drinks.
- Visit your dentist regularly or as frequently as recommended. By doing so, you will remain on top of any warning signs about your oral health.
Take control of your oral health by leading a healthy lifestyle and making it a habit to see your dentist regularly.
Oral hygiene is affected by mental health, resulting in tooth decay or gum disease. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are vital for your mental health.
Oral Health Care in Cardiff
You understand why dental health is essential to your overall health now that you know more about the link between dental and mental health.
You can keep your mouth healthy and lower your chance of having a serious medical condition by taking proper care of your teeth, obtaining regular dental examinations, and addressing any dental issues that arise.
If you’re ready to enhance your dental health, Cardiff Dental is here to help. Please request an appointment online or call us on (02) 4954 6888. You can also check us online for further information.