Oral Health and Mental Health- What is the connection?

The relationship between oral health and mental health is often overlooked. Beyond cosmetic purposes, having healthy teeth and a healthy mouth not only influences our physical health, but also the health of our minds.

The mouth is important in all stages of life as it supports functions such as breathing, eating, and speaking. When someone has poor oral health, it can impact the foods they can eat, which in turn impacts the nutrition they take in, ultimately harming their system health. However, poor oral health can also impact self esteem. The appearance of our teeth and gums play a pivotal role in shaping our self-image. Just think about how much money is spent on braces! Issues such as missing teeth, visible decay, or misalignment can be damaging to one’s self-esteem and how they are perceived by others. It is often said that one of the first things people notice when meeting strangers is the state of their teeth.

This advertisement from a dental office has been floating around on the internet for years, and provides a humorous example showing that the quest that many embark on for a perfect, pearly white smile is not simply for pursuing a healthy mouth, but also about nurturing a positive self-perception.

Oral health is very present in the social dimension. Conditions such as bad breathe can negatively impact social interactions, leading to embarrassment and social withdrawals. Individuals may feel ashamed of their oral state, leading to isolation and and avoiding conversations. The emotional toll of feeling isolated and judged because of their oral health contributes to stress and anxiety, and can also add to the experience of oral pain and discomfort. Untreated dental issues such as cavities or ginigitivis can interfere with daily activities such as eating, and contribute to a diminished quality of life.

It is important to acknowledge the psychological toll of oral diseases in addition to the physical burden. This way, we can work towards more comprehensive approaches to dental healthcare that embrace both physical and mental health. After all, a healthy smile is not just a reflection of good oral hygiene, but is also a mirror to the well-being of the mind.