Depression can affect many aspects of your life. If you are struggling with depression, it is important to seek help so you can work toward a better mental state. Mental health also has an effect on your smile. Continue reading to learn about how it can affect your oral health as well as what you can do to keep your smile healthy while seeking out mental health care.
Depression & Oral Health
Depression can make it hard to take care of yourself, and this includes your oral health. It can be difficult to brush and floss your teeth, and you may not feel like going to the dentist for regular checkups. As a result, you may be more likely to develop cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
A study published in Nature Communications in 2019 suggests that there may be a link between depression and oral health. The study found that people with depression were more likely to have oral health problems.
Other studies validate this discovery, including one from the University of Washington’s dental education program. They found that depression may lead to a decrease in salivary flow, resulting in dry mouth and an increased risk of oral health issues.
3 Other Oral Health Risks Associated With Mental Health Issues
Depression can make it difficult to take care of your teeth and gums, but it isn’t the only thing that can hurt your oral health. Some other ways that your mental health can impact your smile include:
- Medication issues – Some medications prescribed to treat depression can lead to dry mouth, which makes you more likely to develop gum disease or cavities.
- Bad oral habits – People struggling with depression or anxiety are more likely to engage in habits that can worsen their oral health, such as excessive drinking and smoking.
- Higher cortisol levels – Depression and anxiety are associated with the release of the stress hormone cortisol. This hormone has a number of effects on the body, including weakening the immune system. This makes it more difficult for the body to fight off infections, such as gum disease and other oral infections.
3 Ways to Fight Depression for a Healthier Beam
Although dentists are not specialists in mental health treatment, they can provide you with advice on how to take care of your teeth and gums while you seek professional help for your mental health concerns. Some of their recommendations may include:
- Get outside – Vitamin D from sunlight helps your teeth and bones stay strong and healthy. It also helps to improve your mood by improving brain function.
- Make oral hygiene easier – Taking care of your oral health can improve your mood and make it easier to keep your smile in good condition. By slowly incorporating brushing and flossing back into your day, you can create a consistent oral hygiene routine that will help you feel better and look your best.
- Get help – If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue, seek professional help. A mental health professional can help you understand your condition and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.
About the Practice
If you want a brighter, healthier smile, MoreSMILES Dental Spa can help. They offer a wide range of dental services, including cosmetic, preventive and restorative dentistry, to help you achieve the smile you want. Their experienced team takes pride in their work and is committed to providing quality care to their patients. If you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment, call their office at (985) 888-0668 or visit their website.