Teeth and gums are an important part of our bodies. Teeth help us chew food, speak, and smile. The mouth is also the gateway for food and drinks, so it’s important to keep it healthy.
Tooth and gum disease is a common health problem that is often overlooked. However, recent research suggests that tooth and gum disease can actually have a negative impact on a person’s mental health.
There are a few ways to explain how tooth and gum disease can affect mental health.
- Pain and discomfort: Tooth and gum disease, such as cavities, bleeding gums, and infections, can cause pain and discomfort. This pain and discomfort can interfere with daily activities, such as eating, sleeping, and speaking. This can lead to stress and anxiety.
- Appearance changes: Damaged or decayed teeth can make someone feel embarrassed or insecure. This can lead to self-esteem issues and depression.
- Social interaction disruptions: People with serious dental problems often feel embarrassed to smile or laugh in public. This can lead to them withdrawing from social life and becoming more isolated.
A study published in the journal Journal of the American Dental Association in 2017 found that people with serious tooth and gum disease have a higher risk of developing depression. The study involved more than 1,000 adults in the United States.
Another study published in the journal Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin in 2015 found that people with damaged or decayed teeth have a higher risk of developing social anxiety. The study involved more than 1,000 adults in the United Kingdom.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health
To prevent tooth and gum problems that can impact mental health, there are a few things you can do, including:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day for two minutes to remove plaque and bacteria.
- Floss once a day. Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria that get stuck between teeth.
- Visit the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Dentists can detect and treat tooth and gum problems early on.
Healthy teeth are key to good mental health. By maintaining good oral health, we can avoid pain, discomfort, appearance changes, and social interaction disruptions that can have a negative impact on our mental health.
Additional tips for maintaining oral health:
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks. Sugary foods and drinks can cause cavities.
- Drink plenty of water. Water helps to flush plaque and bacteria from the mouth.
- Quit smoking. Smoking can cause damage to teeth and gums.
- Take care of your oral health during pregnancy. A mother’s oral health can affect her baby’s health.
By following these tips, we can keep our teeth and gums healthy for better mental health.
