Depression can affect oral health as a result of neglecting oral hygiene procedures, cariogenic nutrition, avoidance of necessary dental care which leads to an increased risk of dental caries and periodontal disease.
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, almost two-thirds of people with depression reported having a toothache in the last year — significantly higher than the population on average. What's more, half of all people with depression rated their teeth condition as fair or poor.
There are many conditions we can identify during a visual examination of your oral cavity, even if you don't know you suffer from them. This includes mental health problems such as depression. Recent studies suggest that depression conclude depression is closely related to poor oral health.
Studies have shown that mental health and oral health may be correlated, with associations demonstrated between mental health problems and tooth loss, periodontal disease, and tooth decay.
There are 32 teeth in the adult human mouth. It was found that a significant increase in tooth loss was present in those suffering from depression and anxiety compared to those who do not.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the number one cause of tooth loss among adults—accounting for 70 percent of missing teeth. It begins with bacteria and inflammation in the gums.
Some of the main issues for those suffering with mental illness include: Neglect: Research has shown that those suffering from mental illnesses tend to avoid dental care so much that their oral hygiene is neglected. This can result in gum disease and tooth decay.
Tell your dentist what's going on.
Many people are understandably reluctant to share information about their mental state with their dentists. But it's important your dentist understand why you may be having trouble focusing on something like brushing your teeth.
Depression can affect oral health as a result of neglecting oral hygiene procedures, cariogenic nutrition, avoidance of necessary dental care which leads to an increased risk of dental caries and periodontal disease.
DITCH THE WATER AND TOOTHPASTE
Keep your toothbrush in a cup by your bed or couch and dry-brush when you can — no water or toothpaste needed. In a pinch, even just thoroughly rubbing your teeth with a paper towel or washcloth will help remove plaque.
Nervous tension, anger and frustration can cause people to clench and grind their teeth without even realizing it. Therefore, it is important for you to keep an eye out for the following signs: tips of the teeth appearing flat, tooth enamel that is rubbed off causing extreme sensitivity, and tongue indentations.
What is smile dysmorphia? People suffering from SD have a healthy periodontium but feel deeply insecure about specific aspects of their teeth. They may have unrealistic outcome expectations and seek out invasive procedures to correct a perceived flaw.
Teeth grinding
Stress can make you clench and grind your teeth anytime of the day, without you even realizing it. Your dentist will be able to see signs of clenching and teeth grinding during your examination. If you already clench or grind your teeth when you're not stressed, this can make the habit worse.
Primary Culprits. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI,) atypical antidepressants, and tricyclic antidepressants.
Depression can cause low energy, negative thinking, and brain fog. All of these can make it difficult to maintain personal hygiene practices. A person might find it hard to get out of bed in the morning, brush their teeth, and take a shower. They may feel the desire to do these things but not have the energy to do so.
Poor hygiene isn't one of the formal symptoms of depression, but it may be related to some of the other symptoms you're experiencing. The formal symptoms of depression include: low mood, including sadness, guilt, hopelessness, irritability, and anger.
Prolonged time without brushing your teeth can cause tooth decay and gum disease to become more advanced, which can lead to receding gums and even tooth loss. Additional issues, including a higher risk for the onset of Alzheimer's disease, can be linked to high levels of unchecked bacteria in the mouth.
Soda, sugary food, and drinks are harmful to your teeth and sometimes more harmful than battery acid. Other causes of fast tooth decay can stem from other sources like acid reflux, stomach problems, or eating disorders such as bulimia.
Your dentist hopes you won't cry, but they'd rather help you through your fears than watch you make yourself miserable. If you need to cry, cry but try not to worry about whether you will or won't. A compassionate dental office will work with you through the tears.
Oral anxiety is the stress effects on oral health. Stress or anxiety can impact your oral health; when you are stressed, your immune system is compromised, and while the cause of canker sores is not proven, there is some correlation or higher likelihood between lowered immune and those nasty painful canker sores.
Most cases of dental trauma are caused by accidents, including falls, vehicle collisions, and playing sports. Some cases are due to being involved in violent incidents, such as fighting or physical abuse.
Children usually lose their first tooth around 5 or 6 years old. But every child is unique. Some will lose their first tooth as early as 4 years old or as late as 7 years old.