How Gum Disease Can Affect Your Mental Health

Gum disease is an oral health issue that you can’t afford to take lightly. Not only can it have a devastating effect on your smile, but research has shown that it could potentially be linked to various other health problems. Surprisingly, this can even include issues with your mental health. What does gum disease have to do with your mental wellbeing? Here’s what you need to know about this surprising connection.

The Link Between Gum Disease and Mental Health

A study from the University of Birmingham looked at the records of 64,379 patients who had some form of gum disease and compared them to the records of 251,161 patients without gum disease. It was found that individuals with gum disease had a 37% higher risk of developing mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression.

This link could potentially be explained by the consequences of gum disease. When left untreated, gum disease can cause chronic bad breath, and it can even lead to tooth loss. These issues can hurt your self-esteem and may contribute to social anxiety. Over time, this could make existing mental health issues worse.

Of course, the connection can potentially go the other way as well. Sometimes your mental health might end up having an adverse effect on your smile. For example, people who are under a lot of stress might not be as diligent about brushing and flossing, and that can make gum disease more likely to occur.

What Can You Do to Prevent Gum Disease?

If you want to protect your smile, mind, and body from the worst of gum disease, you should be proactive about preventing it. Below are some simple steps you can take to promote good gum health:

• Eat Plenty of Nutritious Foods: Make sure that you’re getting plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other foods containing vitamins that can be beneficial for your gums.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: You should make a point of brushing your teeth twice a day; don’t forget to clean near the gumline. Additionally, you should floss daily to get rid of the plaque between your teeth that could contribute to gum disease.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: If you visit your dentist twice a year, they can lower your risk for oral health issues by removing any plaque or tartar that you have been unable to get rid of on your own. They can also check for signs of gum disease, thus increasing your chances of having it caught and treated at its earliest stages.

Remember, if you have any concerns about the health of your gums, call your dentist right away. It’s best to have gum disease dealt with as quickly as possible before it can lead to any severe consequences.

About the Author

Dr. Darren Koch graduated from The University at Buffalo, and he holds membership with the Fourth District Dental Society of Raleigh/Wake County and other dental organizations. When it comes to treating gum disease, he offers deep cleanings and antibiotic therapy. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Koch at his practice in Cary, visit his website or call (919) 859-6633.