When we think about depression, most people focus on its emotional toll: persistent sadness, lack of energy, and difficulty concentrating. But what many don’t realize is that depression can have far-reaching effects on your physical health, too – including your oral health. Continue reading to learn why it continues beyond mental health and into dental care.
Neglecting Oral Hygiene
One of the most common symptoms of depression is a lack of motivation or energy to maintain daily routines, including brushing and flossing. People may skip these habits for days or even weeks, leading to a buildup of plaque and bacteria. This increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Over time, small issues can snowball into more serious dental problems if not addressed.
Dietary Changes
Depression often affects appetite. Some individuals may lose interest in eating altogether, while others may turn to comfort foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates. Frequent snacking on sugary treats or drinking sweetened beverages can feed harmful bacteria in the mouth, accelerating tooth decay and gum inflammation. Additionally, inadequate nutrition can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections, including those in your gums.
Dry Mouth and Side Effects of Medication
Many antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can cause dry mouth, a condition that reduces the amount of saliva in your mouth. Saliva plays an important role in protecting teeth by washing away food particles and neutralizing acids. Without enough saliva, patients are more susceptible to tooth decay, bad breath, and oral infections. If an individual is taking medication for depression and experiencing dry mouth, they should consult their dentist – they can offer solutions to help keep your mouth hydrated and healthy.
Teeth Grinding
Depression and anxiety often go hand in hand, and both can lead to teeth grinding (bruxism), especially during sleep. This can result in worn enamel, tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, and even cracked teeth over time. If a person is experiencing these symptoms, the dentist may recommend a custom nightguard to protect the teeth and reduce tension in jaw muscles.
Avoiding Dental Visits
Depression can also cause people to withdraw from activities, including regular dental checkups. Unfortunately, avoiding the dentist can allow minor issues to develop into major problems, leading to more extensive and costly treatments later on. Let the dentist know what’s going on – they are there to support you with gentle, compassionate care.
Your smile reflects more than just dental health – it reflects your overall well-being. If you’re experiencing depression, know that you’re not alone, and there are resources and people ready to help, including your dental care team.
About the Practice
If you’ve been avoiding dental visits because of mental health issues, don’t worry – our staff at Sparkling Smiles Fayetteville is ready to provide you with judgement-free care. The father-daughter team of Drs. Dave Lee and Lauren Lee Polito can see to your every need, whether it’s preventive, restorative, or cosmetic treatment you require. Small steps lead to big progress – we can help you take back control of your health, so reach out and schedule your appointment today via our website or call our office at (770) 637-4680.