How Gum Disease Can Impact Your Mental Wellness

While we often focus on the health of our teeth, it’s important to remember the critical role our gums play in achieving a beautiful and healthy smile. In fact, recent research indicates that the health of your gums can influence your mental wellbeing too! Sadly, gum disease is a widespread issue, affecting nearly 50% of adults over the age of 30. How exactly can your gums impact your mental health? What can you do to keep your gums and your mental wellbeing in tip top shape? Read on to learn more from your Metairie dentist!

Linking Gum Disease & Mental Health

Gum disease is a prevalent and serious issue in oral health. Primarily, it’s the result of plaque and tartar buildup. These substances harden on your teeth and allow bacteria to irritate your oral tissue. Should they take hold and cause an infection, periodontal disease develops, causing puffy, sensitive, and bleeding gums.

While gum disease is most well-known as the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States, its effects extend beyond the mouth. The University of Birmingham conducted a study of 64,379 adults in the United Kingdom in 2021 that showed people suffering from gum disease were 37% more likely to experience mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.

The cause of this correlation? According to the co-study author and periodontal specialist Dr. Devan Raindi, the physical side effects of gum disease are likely to blame. The most common symptoms of gum disease are bad breath, drifting or loose teeth, and tooth loss- all of which can have a significant detrimental effect on confidence and self-image.

Tips for Improving Your Oral and Mental Health

Although gum disease can have serious repercussions, it is one of the most preventable issues in oral health! Here are some effective tips to boost both your dental and mental health:

• Consider your oral hygiene habits – If you haven’t started yet, be sure to floss daily and incorporate an antibacterial mouthwash into your routine. Maintaining a consistent oral care regimen at home is essential for preventing gum disease!
• Visit your dentist regularly – Consistent dental check-ups are vital for effectively combating gum disease. By visiting your dentist twice a year, they can closely monitor your gum health and catch any potential issues early on.
• Eat a healthy diet – A low-sugar diet that has plenty of fiber-packed, vitamin-rich foods is a great way to prevent plaque buildup and reduce your risk of gum disease. Plus, keeping a balanced diet with healthy foods has been proven to help mental health as well!

Focusing on strong oral health can greatly lower your risk of gum disease, which in turn can help minimize potential mental health challenges. If you observe any concerning symptoms, be sure to contact your dentist. They can offer the appropriate treatment to help restore your smile and boost your mood!

About the Practice

At Second Line Family Dentistry, Dr. Mayda Ferguson is proud to offer thorough gum disease treatment and prevention to Metairie and the surrounding communities. Dr. Ferguson has earned her Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry and constantly works to stay current with the latest in dental technology. Whether you need routine gum health checkups, scaling and root planing, or antibiotic treatment, she can help you keep your gums and mental health in tip top shape! To learn more, please visit our website or give us a call at (504) 833-2220.