Maintaining good oral health has a direct correlation with a person’s mental well-being. Studies have shown that patients with depression who have poor oral health have a harder time managing their symptoms than those who have good oral hygiene. Poor oral health can also lead to physical symptoms such as pain or other oral health ailments, which can exacerbate depression symptoms. Therefore, it’s vital to prioritize oral health as part of a holistic approach to managing depression, alongside medication and therapy.
The Connection between Depression and Oral Health
When it comes to maintaining oral hygiene, depression can be a significant obstacle. Recent studies reveal that mouth ulcers may be associated with both depressive symptoms and decreased salivary flow, increasing the risk of gum disease and cavities. It is therefore important to take extra precautions and maintain good oral care habits during times of depression.
How can I Ensure Proper Care for my Mental and Oral Health?
When it comes to dental health, communication with your dentist is key. It may be difficult to open up and share your mental health struggles with your dentist, but it’s important for them to understand the full picture. This allows them to provide the best possible care and treatment for your unique needs. By being honest and upfront about your mental state, you can work together with your dentist to ensure your overall health and well-being are taken care of.
Try to stay active
If you’re feeling down, it can be difficult to muster up the motivation to exercise. However, staying active, even if it’s just a little bit each day, can have significant benefits for your mental health. Research has shown that spending time outdoors and getting exposure to the sun’s vitamin D can help alleviate symptoms of depression. In addition, exercise triggers the release of proteins in the brain that can improve cognitive function and mood.
Eat fruits and vegetables
It’s no secret that our food choices can play a significant role in how we feel. When we’re feeling down, it’s all too easy to reach for comfort food, but this can be counterproductive in the long run. In fact, consuming too many carbs and sugars can actually make depression symptoms worse. That’s why choosing to eat fruits and vegetables, especially those that are crunchy like carrots, alongside nuts and legumes can be beneficial for both our mood and our dental health.
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once
Keeping a routine is helpful not only for your spirit, but for your oral health as well. Creating a schedule for self-care each day can help you stay on top of your brushing and flossing, as well as other important aspects of your health. It’s important to encourage yourself, whether it’s by setting a daily calendar reminder or by asking a friend or family member to help motivate you. By making oral care a regular part of your routine, you’ll be doing your part to promote good oral health and prevent issues down the line.
Obtain assistance for your depression
Discuss the difficulties you are experiencing with your physician and request a referral to a therapist or mental health expert.
What is It Necessary for my Dentist to know?
If you’re taking anti-depressants, it’s important to keep your dentist in the loop about your medication. This is because certain medications can result in oral health side effects, such as bruxism, dry mouth, and even trouble swallowing. By keeping your dentist informed, he or she can help you manage these side effects effectively while still benefiting from the medication. Additionally, it’s equally vital to let your physician know if your dentist prescribes anything to you for your oral health.
