PHCC expert highlights close link between mental and oral health

The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has highlighted the importance of the relationship between mental and oral health. Dr Najat Alyafei, manager of Oral Health Promotion and Prevention, Preventive Health Directorate at PHCC in an article says that individuals with psychological disorders, such as depression and anxiety, experience negative impacts on oral health, ranging from neglecting personal care to more complex health problems.

She explores the effects of mental health disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, on oral health and highlights how dentists can be at the forefront of detecting these conditions through dental examinations. “Depression is closely linked to oral health challenges due to its impact on daily routines and individual behaviours. Studies indicate that people with depression are more likely to neglect oral hygiene, increasing the risk of various dental problems. Research has also shown that individuals with depression are more likely to report oral and dental issues such as pain and difficulty brushing their teeth compared to others,” explained Dr Alyafei.

She said that depression is associated with behaviours such as consuming sugary foods and beverages, heightening the risk of tooth decay. One study has found that individuals with severe mental illnesses are 2.7 times more likely to lose all their teeth due to neglect and other related factors. Additionally, antidepressant medications contribute to oral health problems by causing dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Dr Alyafei notes that chronic anxiety has been linked to an increased occurrence of bruxism (teeth grinding), which often happens involuntarily during sleep. Numerous studies have shown that people with high anxiety levels are more likely to experience this compared to those without anxiety. Chronic stress exacerbates bruxism by affecting the nervous system, which controls muscle activity during chewing. This can impact tooth enamel, leading to small cracks that may be noticed during dental examinations and result in jaw pain and headaches.

According to the official, mental and oral health professionals play a crucial role in identifying these conditions early. “Observations such as poor oral hygiene or signs of bruxism during routine checkups can serve as early indicators of undiagnosed mental health issues. Scientific studies emphasise the importance of collaboration between dentists and mental health specialists to provide comprehensive patient care,” she commented.

Dr Alyafei stated that patients themselves play a vital role in maintaining oral health despite the psychological challenges. She remarked: “It is essential for patients to recognise that mental health disorders affect the body in multiple ways, including oral health. With this awareness and understanding of the potential damage, individuals are encouraged to commit to daily dental care routines. Brushing teeth twice daily and using dental floss, even during stressful periods, can help mitigate the impact of mental health issues on oral health.”

The official stresses that the relationship between mental health and oral health is intricate and multifaceted. “Depression and anxiety directly impact oral hygiene, leading to dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bruxism. On the other hand, untreated oral problems can worsen psychological symptoms, intensifying feelings of pain, isolation, and depression,” she added.