The Link Between Oral Health and Mental Well-Being
Posted on March 24, 2025 in Healthy Living
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Is a healthy smile key to a happier life? While oral health is often linked to physical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, it also plays a role in mental health. This connection is also important in day-to-day life, where managing tasks, keeping up with responsibilities at home and at work can affect stress levels.
By understanding the link between oral health and mental well-being, we can take steps to create wholistic wellness throughout the day.
How poor oral health affects mental well-being
According to the American Psychiatric Association, there’s a “clear connection” between oral health and mental well-being. When oral health declines, it can have a negative impact on mental health in the following ways:
Lower confidence: Dental issues like decayed or missing teeth can lead to lower self-esteem, leading to hesitation in meetings, avoiding social interactions, or refraining from smiling. Over time, this can affect confidence, productivity, and career growth.
Difficulty concentrating: Oral pain can significantly impact productivity. Research shows individuals with oral pain are almost 14 times more likely to struggle at work or school. Discomfort from oral health conditions like toothaches can even cause headaches, making it harder to focus.
Increased anxiety or depression: Living with dental pain or self-consciousness about your smile can heighten stress, and high levels of stress may increase the risk of depression and anxiety.
How stress can harm oral health
The connection between oral health and mental well-being is a two-way street, and stress is a growing concern. Chronic stress often leads to unhealthy habits that can harm oral health in the following ways:
Teeth grinding and poor diet: Stress can cause teeth grinding, which contributes to worsening oral health conditions. In addition, high levels of stress can lead to overeating, often involving high-fat, sugary, or unhealthy foods, and excessive consumption of alcohol, both of which increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Neglecting oral hygiene: Depression and anxiety can make daily tasks overwhelming, including oral health care. If someone is struggling with their mental health, they may be more likely to skip brushing, flossing, or dental checkups, increasing risk of gum disease and decay.
Skipping dental visits: Busy schedules, tight deadlines, and day-to-day stress can lead people to put off dental care. Skipping routine check-ups can allow minor issues to escalate, affecting both oral health and mental well-being.
Small habits build to enhance oral health and overall well-being
Prioritizing oral health in wholistically may mean implementing some simple habits outside of regular brushing to keep smiles shining bright and confidence riding high.
Consider making adjustments to your daily schedule to prioritize oral health throughout your day:
- Keep a hygiene kit at work complete with a toothbrush and floss.
- Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth.
- Take breaks to reduce stress.
- Keep healthy snacks around to munch on.
- Use your dental benefits! Visit the dentist regularly, even just for check-ups.
Oral health and mental well-being go hand in hand
Your smile and mental health are more connected than you might think. By prioritizing oral health and mental well-being, you can improve both your daily performance and overall quality of life.
Need a check-up? Find a dentist and schedule an appointment today!
Mental health support resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available: