A recent scientific study published in the journal Frontiers in Oral Health showed that psychological state not only affects a person's mood, but also extends to oral and dental health.
During the study, researchers analyzed data from 650 adults, assessing symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as quality of life related to oral health, using internationally recognized PHQ-9, GAD-7, and OHIP-14 questionnaires.
The results showed a direct relationship between the severity of depression and anxiety symptoms and the deterioration of participants' assessment of the condition of their teeth and gums, as well as the impact of oral problems on their daily lives. This relationship was significantly stronger among those with severe depression and severe anxiety.
The researchers also noted that low oral health scores were more common among people over the age of 45 and those from middle-income families.
The researchers believe that these results call on dentists to take the patient’s psychological state into account, and that including an assessment of anxiety and depression within the comprehensive care plan may constitute an important step in promoting the prevention and treatment of oral and dental diseases.
Many health experts point out that stress and anxiety negatively affect many hormones and vitamin absorption in the body, which weakens the body’s immune system and increases susceptibility to diseases, including oral and dental diseases. Some people with anxiety and stress also suffer from teeth grinding, which leads to damage and breakage of their teeth over time if left untreated.
