Although many of the systems of your body may seem completely independent of each other, the truth is that they are often more connected than you realize. Take for example your mental and oral health. While it may not seem obvious how the brain could be connected to your teeth and gums, the two affect each other more than you might think. Here’s a few ways they can affect each other, and what you can do to protect yourself.
The Mental/Oral Health Connection
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 8.3 percent of adults in the United States experienced a major depressive episode last year. That’s about 21 million people. In addition to experiencing feelings of sadness, exhaustion, and lack of motivation, people who suffer from depression may also struggle to properly care for themselves, including regularly maintaining their smiles by brushing, flossing, and going to the dentist.
Worse yet, some patients may also develop bad oral habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol, biting their fingernails, clenching their jaws, or grinding their teeth. Each of these can cause permanent damage to your smile, including gum disease, broken or worn teeth, cavities, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
How to Protect Your Smile and Your Mental Health
If you are struggling with depression or anxiety that makes it difficult to maintain proper oral and overall health, it is important to seek treatment from a qualified mental health professional. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for help or fall into the trap of thinking that your mind is not as important as the rest of your body and therefore it isn’t necessary to care for.
Protecting your smile while dealing with depression can be extremely difficult, but not impossible. There are a number of things you can do to make sure you are keeping on track with this important step in your routine, such as:
- Set a timer or download an app to remind you to maintain your hygiene each day. You should be brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. It may help to schedule this for the same time each day to stay consistent.
- Buy yourself a new toothbrush in a fun color or pattern to help motivate you to brush. You can even buy flavored dental floss and toothpaste to keep the momentum going. Just be sure that you’re using a fluoridated toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Schedule your future dental appointments at the end of each current appointment so you don’t need to worry about finding the motivation to do so as the date approaches.
Remember, your mental and oral health are equally important, and both deserve proper care and attention. If you are suffering from any signs of depression that may make it harder for you to care for yourself and your smile, speak to a qualified mental health professional as soon as possible. If you have any dental pain, bleeding when you brush, or other oral health concerns, please contact your dentist and he’ll be happy to help.
About Dr. Lee
Dr. Tony Lee earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Mississippi and his dental degree at their dental school, the UMMC School of Dentistry. He has also taken continuing education courses from the American Academy of Facial Esthetics focusing on treating TMJ and facial pain. Dr. Lee is also a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. To schedule an appointment for your preventive exam and cleaning at Total Dental Care, visit our website or call today at 904-808-8779.