Depression is becoming an increasingly common issue; in 2023, it was found that 29% of adults in the United States had been diagnosed with the disorder at some point. Not only can depression take a toll on your overall quality of life, but it can also have a detrimental effect on the well-being of your smile. Below is a closer look at the relationship between depression and oral health, as well as what you can do to address your disorder and protect your teeth and gums.
How Can Depression Affect Your Oral Health?
When you have depression, you’re likely to experience strong, persistent feelings of sadness. You may also experience a lack of energy during the day and a diminished interest in activities that you usually like. When left unmanaged, depression can affect your oral health in the following ways:
- You may be less motivated to maintain good oral hygiene habits. This gives harmful oral bacteria a chance to build up, ultimately increasing your risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health complications.
- You may be more likely to overindulge in comfort foods that contain high levels of sugar. When the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, they produce acids that eat away at your enamel and ultimately cause cavities.
- You may experience a dry mouth as a side effect of taking certain antidepressants. Having a dry mouth means that your body isn’t producing enough saliva, creating an oral environment where harmful bacteria can thrive.
What Can You Do to Address Depression and Improve Oral Health?
If you’re experiencing depression, the important thing to remember is that you’re not alone. You can speak to a mental health professional who can help you develop strategies for managing your symptoms; they may also prescribe medication depending on your situation.
When it comes to protecting and improving the health of your smile, one of the most crucial steps you can take is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can identify any problems that are developing inside your mouth and treat them before they turn into dental emergencies. On top of that, they can help you fully understand the link between your mental and oral health, and they can point you toward solutions that are personalized for your unique case.
Dealing with depression is not always easy, but if you take the right steps, you can mitigate the impact that it has on your smile and your everyday life.
About the Author
Dr. Ryan Shaffer studied dentistry at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He has been practicing dentistry in Lincoln since 2005, and he always takes the time to fully customize the care he offers in order to meet the needs of his patients while ensuring they have an overall positive experience. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Shaffer at South Ridge Dental, visit his website or call (402) 423-1616.