On the surface, there may seem to be a minimal connection between mental and oral health. However, mounting scientific evidence points to a much stronger bidirectional relationship between the two than you may think. 

Oral health issues like gum disease, tooth loss, or stained teeth can severely impact self-esteem and lower the quality of life. Stress, anxiety, and depression may also influence oral hygiene habits, increasing the risk of long-term dental problems. 

In this article, we’ll further explore the relationship between oral health and mental health and discuss strategies for getting the most out of this bidirectional relationship.

How Mental Health Affects Oral Hygiene

Stress or depression can reduce motivation for daily brushing and flossing routines, and can also make it challenging to keep up with dental visits and cleanings. 

Anxiety can also harm oral health, particularly when it comes to bruxism (teeth grinding). Teeth grinding, largely caused by stress, can occur overnight even if you’re not aware it’s happening, and it can lead to severe enamel wear and jaw pain. 

Stress and poor mental health can also cause poor dietary choices, such as eating too many sugary comfort foods, which can lead to tooth decay over time.  

Impact of Oral Health on Self-Esteem and Mood

Alternatively, poor oral health can lead to dips in self-esteem and mood, which can have a negative impact on your overall well-being. Missing, discolored, or crooked teeth often lead to a lack of self-confidence or social anxiety. 

Poor oral health may affect relationships, job performance, or social standing. Persistent tooth pain or gum inflammation can also cause changes in mood and heightened irritability, which can distract from daily tasks and responsibilities. 

Those who are not confident in their smile can sometimes have depression and anxiety related to their looks. Improving your smile with proper dental work and professional care can improve self-image and boost your emotional outlook.

Identifying Warning Signs of a Negative Cycle

According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, people suffering from severe mental illness are almost three times as likely to lose all of their teeth. Identifying early warning signs of a potential negative cycle of poor oral health leading to psychological distress or vice versa is critical. 

Frequent toothaches, bleeding gums, or chronic bad breath (halitosis) may signal declining oral health that should be treated immediately.

Alternatively, drastic changes in mood, depressive thoughts, increased anxiety, or decreased energy levels can correspond with reduced oral health care efforts. 

Awareness of these indicators, especially early on, can help break the cycle of poor oral hygiene and declining mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness that’s causing oral health decline, contact a mental health professional immediately. 

Strategies to Maintain Both Oral and Mental Wellness

Thankfully, there are a variety of strategies you can implement to boost both your mental wellness and your oral health, such as: 

• Setting daily reminders and calendars for brushing and flossing
• Not stocking sugary drinks or food in your home 
• Scheduling dental checkups to check for any oral health issues or complications
• Meditating to reduce stress
• Exercising to boost endorphins
• Attending therapy or other mental health wellness sessions 
• Adding in custom teeth-whitening trays or other over-the-counter products to boost smile and self-esteem
• Maintaining a set sleep schedule of at least 7-9 hours per night to reduce irritability
• Establishing a routine for oral health when traveling or busy
  
  

When to Seek Professional Help

If pain, swelling, or ongoing infections persist despite routine dental care, it may be time to schedule a visit with a dental professional. A dentist will be able to tell you if you have any underlying conditions that may be causing these issues and prescribe medications or at-home care routines that can improve both your oral and mental health. 

If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress that impacts daily hygiene tasks, seek help from a trained mental health professional. Recognizing signs that you need help can prevent mental health issues from spiraling. Untreated mental health issues can, in turn, affect other aspects of your life, such as your dental health. 

Dentists and therapists alike can also make recommendations or referrals to other doctors if you need more comprehensive support.

Comprehensive Dental Care is Available at Ideal Dental

The link between oral health and mental well-being is clear, and neglect in one area can compound issues in the other. 

Proactive oral hygiene can reduce stress, while proper stress management can lead to better oral health. Timely professional interventions can also contribute to early prevention before these issues snowball into larger problems. 

If you’re in need of dental care that’s affecting your oral and mental well-being, contact your local Ideal Dental today to schedule an appointment.