HELSINKI: Growing evidence reveals a significant connection between oral health and mental well-being, with experts warning that neglecting oral hygiene could exacerbate mental health problems. Studies show that individuals with severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, are at a heightened risk of poor oral health, leading to conditions like tooth decay, periodontal disease, and tooth loss.
Poor mental health often leads to neglect of oral hygiene, while dental issues such as missing teeth or gum infections can negatively impact self-esteem, social interactions, and overall well-being.
A Finnish study involving over 8,400 participants showed that individuals with depressive and anxiety symptoms were less likely to maintain oral hygiene routines like brushing teeth and visiting the dentist. Meanwhile, research in Sweden found that patients with psychotic disorders had significantly worse oral health, often reporting more missing teeth and requiring urgent dental care.
Experts stress that psychiatric medications, particularly antipsychotics, can cause xerostomia (dry mouth), further increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Dr. Jukka Meurman, professor of oral and maxillofacial diseases at the University of Helsinki, noted that nearly 66% of patients using typical antipsychotics experienced dry mouth, impacting their ability to chew, swallow, or speak.
Barriers such as the high cost of dental treatment, fear of dental procedures, and lack of integration between dental and mental health services prevent many individuals from accessing essential care. Additionally, psychiatric treatments often focus solely on mental health symptoms, neglecting oral health issues that can worsen overall well-being.
Dr. Meurman advocates for integrating oral health into mental health services, urging professionals to screen for oral health issues during clinical assessments and collaborate with dental care providers. "A multidisciplinary approach to care can significantly enhance the quality of life for patients with mental health conditions," he stated.
Regular dental check-ups and improved oral hygiene practices, including antibacterial treatments, can play a crucial role in mitigating oral health problems and their psychological effects. As evidence mounts, health professionals are increasingly recognizing oral care as a critical component of comprehensive mental health treatment.