It can be hard to feel good when you’re sick, not just physically, but also mentally. Researchers have found that nearly 37% of people who contract gum disease experience some form of mental health distress, like anxiety and depression. This might seem strange at first, but then again, gum disease can have some pretty nasty effects that would weigh on someone’s mind.
To learn more about the connection between gum disease and your mental health and how you can protect your teeth, keep reading.
Connecting Gum Disease and Mental Health
The evidence doesn’t necessarily indicate that the bacteria that causes gum disease directly causes mental illness. As of yet, it seems to instead suggest that the physical effects of gum disease lead to poorer life quality, which can be distressing.
If a patient loses teeth because of the disease, for example, they might feel a sense of guilt, loss, or anxiety, or have difficulties eating and speaking. In addition to seeking treatment for their gums, it might be a good idea for patients with poor oral health to track their mental wellness and tap into psychiatric resources.
Overall Health and Mental Wellness
Another complication of gum disease is how it can affect other parts of your body. There’s a strong link between gum disease and autoimmune disease, type 1 diabetes, arthritis, psoriasis, and even cardiovascular issues. Even if a patient isn’t as concerned about their gums and teeth, they could be troubled by their declining general health. Primary care physicians, dentists, and therapists might all need to be involved in this scenario.
Preventing Gum Disease
Preventing gum disease is often a matter of maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. Twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing helps mitigate the bacteria accumulation that occurs throughout your day and at night. Your dentist can also provide regular checkups and cleanings to look for early warning signs of oral illness and remove dangerous hardened bacteria.
That said, some research suggests that there’s a genetic component to gum disease, and certain medical conditions can increase your risk. If you’re upfront with your dentist about your health history, they can help you find “extra” ways to protect your teeth.
Seeking Treatment
Both your physical and mental health are important. If you notice signs of gum disease or mental distress, don’t hesitate to contact your health and wellness team. They want the best for you and would gladly provide quality treatment and personalized advice.
About the Dentist
Dr. Brett Noorda has been helping patients restore and maintain their oral health for nearly 25 years. He’s also a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry – an honor that only seven percent of dentists achieve. With his dedication to his profession and his patients, you can trust Dr. Noorda to provide quality preventative care and gum disease treatments. To contact his office, call 702-456-7403.