It is known to everyone that an unhealthy mouth can cause a variety of issues, from cavities and gum disease to halitosis. But do you know that there is also an unexpected link between oral health and your mind.
If we neglect to take care of our gums and teeth, we not only risk issues such as gum disease or tooth decay; we can also influence our confidence, relationships, and even brain function.
Good oral health makes us feel more confident about ourselves, get along better with others, and enjoy life to the fullest. Take a look at this blog to find out how oral health can affect your mental wellbeing.
How can poor oral health affect your mood?
There are several ways in which poor oral health can negatively impact your mood:
- Pain and discomfort: Toothaches, gum infections and other oral health problems can cause significant pain and discomfort, which can naturally lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and stress.
- Low self-esteem: A smile has long been viewed as an indication of being happy and confident. If you feel embarrassed about the look of your teeth, it can affect your self-esteem and self-worth in a negative way.
- Social withdrawal: Bad oral health makes you feel shy and reluctant to socialise with people. This may result in feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Can poor oral health lead to depression?
Although poor oral health is not the cause of depression, it can be an indirect cause. Research indicates that individuals with depression tend to have poorer oral health. The reasons for this may be lack of motivation, lack of energy, or self-neglect.
How oral health promotes your mental wellbeing?
- Relief from pain and discomfort
Toothache, infection and gum disease may cause pain and difficulty in eating or sleeping. This can create stress, anxiety, and even lost days from work or school. The good news is many oral diseases can be prevented with routine care.
- Improving self-confidence
A healthy smile can make you feel confident. If you like your teeth, you are more likely to smile and mingle without hesitation. Having a confident smile can enhance your mood and self-esteem.
- Supporting social wellbeing
Unpleasant breath, gaps in teeth or sore gums can make individuals feel embarrassed and withdraw from social activity. Looking after your oral health means that you can communicate with others with more confidence and have a better social life.
- Living life to the fullest
A healthy mouth allows you to eat, speak and laugh without pain. When you don’t have to stress about oral issues, you can get on with enjoying life’s little things.
- Protecting brain health
You might be surprised that your oral health has an impact on your brain. When you have poor oral hygiene, you let the harmful bacteria into your bloodstream, which has been connected to memory loss and other mental problems. Maintaining a healthy mouth keeps your brain going, too.
- Smiling more, feeling better
Smiling isn’t merely about appearing happy – it actually makes you feel happier! Smiling releases ‘feel-good’ chemicals in the brain that calm stress and improve your mood. If you are happy with your teeth, then you will more likely smile and reap these rewards.
- A healthy start for kids
Healthy habits start young. Getting kids into the habit of taking care of their teeth means they avoid dental issues and can feel proud as adults. A healthy smile can make a great impact on their future health.
How can I enhance my oral health and overall mood?
Some advice for enhancing your oral health and your mood are as follows:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss every day, and visit your dentist for routine check-ups.
- A healthy diet: Steer clear of processed and sugary foods that may lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains instead.
- Stress management: Stress can negatively affect both your physical and mental health. Practice stress management through exercise, meditation, or yoga.
- Sleep plenty: Poor and insufficient sleep can lead to depression and other feelings of anxiety. Aim to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night.
- Visit a professional: If you are having issues with depression or other mental health problems, don’t be afraid to visit a professional. A therapist can offer you the assistance and advice you need to enhance your mental health.
Can certain medications affect my oral health?
Some medications can have a negative impact on your oral health. For example, certain antidepressants can cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor or dentist about how they may affect your oral health.
What role does genetics play in determining your oral health and mood?
Genetics may influence oral as well as mental health. For instance, some individuals are more prone to tooth decay or gum disease based on their genetics. Likewise, some individuals may be more vulnerable to depression or anxiety based on their genetic tendencies.
How frequently do I need to have dental check-ups?
You need to have regular dental check-ups in order to have good oral health and avoid serious dental issues. It is advisable to have appointments with your dentist every six months. These check-ups enable your dentist to look for any sign of disease or decay in your teeth, gums and jaw. This can help prevent bigger issues and save you from huge expenses in the future. On check-ups, your dentist can also give professional cleaning and inform you on how to practice good oral hygiene. At South Kensington MD, you can be rest assured as our highly qualified dentist Dr. Andreia Phipps with her entire team will be dedicated to restoring confidence in your smile while boosting your emotional wellbeing.
Final Thoughts
The relationship between oral health and mental wellbeing is complicated and multi-faceted. By taking excellent care of your gums and teeth, you can not only enhance your body’s health but also enhance your mood and overall way of living. If you are worried about your oral health or mental wellbeing, don’t wait to reach out for professional advice.
If your dental health is affecting your self-confidence or mood negatively, contact our Dental Clinic in South Kensington for expert dental care as well as mental health advice.
