How Does Your Oral Health Affect Your Mental Health?

A person’s mental health status cannot be defined by a single factor. In fact, it is so complex and intricate that any part of your body can affect your mental health in positive and negative ways. That being said, oral health is no exception. 

Poor oral health can not only make you feel uneasy every time you eat or drink, but it can also affect how you feel in the presence of others. Studies have revealed that there is a strong correlation between mental health and oral health. 

Dr. Seung Lee and his team of doctors at Del Mar Dental Family Care in Aurora, Colorado, offer exceptional dental services that will not only improve your dental health but also make you feel more confident while interacting with others.

Links Between Oral Health and Mental Health

• The Trigger

There is a powerful connection between your mouth and your mind. Diseases such as periodontitis or crooked teeth can result in lower self-esteem. Such conditions can also lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. 

According to the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, among the participants of the survey, “more than half of the adults with moderate depressive symptoms had periodontal diseases, and more than one-third had teeth with untreated dental caries.”

• The Happy Feeling

Have you noticed a happy, nice feeling after a good round of brushing your teeth? Yes, a clean mouth gives a clean and happy feeling. This produces endorphins in the brain which in turn elevates the mood and reduces stress.

• A Cause of Concern

It is common to see someone upset over the black stains or discoloration on their teeth. Or, about the fact that their gums are not as pink as they want. It can be taxing for those who spend considerable time and effort to look good. It may have a serious effect on people who work in the hospitality sector or those who interact with the public as part of their job. They would be hesitant to smile openly and be conscious about their appearance, thus affecting their idea of self, which can further lead to more serious mental health conditions.

• Confidence Booster

The opposite is also true where someone with a good set of teeth in nicely shaped jaws is always flashing a smile and spreading cheer around. It is not to say that appearance alone matters, but it definitely has an impact on the person’s overall confidence and self-esteem levels.

Therefore, maintaining good oral health is important in ensuring good mental health. While the connection may look far-fetched from distance, the impact of oral health on an individual’s mental health cannot be overlooked.

To know more about how oral health can impact your mental health and ways to improve your overall oral health, contact Del Mar Dental Family Care in Aurora, CO. You may call us at (303) 577-0062 to schedule an appointment.