Summer Samir
Posted on: Monday, December 5, 2022 – 8:12 PM | Last update: Monday, December 5, 2022 – 8:12 PM
Poor oral health reduces quality of life and exacerbates mental health problems. It can also harm your self-esteem and lead to an increase in some mental health symptoms. Conversely, good oral health boosts self-confidence and improves social, emotional and mental well-being.
A recent study spanning several years revealed that people with severe mental disorders were 2.8 times more likely to lose their teeth than others, and this is generally due to untreated health conditions or difficulty in obtaining dental care. In addition, it also affects physical health, as Self-soothing behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, and eating processed foods, can affect the overall health of the body, including oral hygiene, as published by Healthshots.
How do you manage your dental health and your mental health?
Eat a balanced diet
It is essential to follow a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrients that are full of minerals and vitamins. You should also remember that what you eat affects your mood, and ultimately your oral health, so be sure to add a wide variety of nutritious foods to your diet.
2. Look for symptoms of poor dental hygiene
You should actively look out for signs and symptoms to ensure proper dental health. For example, bleeding gums while brushing or flossing, jaw pain, toothaches, black spots, and sensitivity to hot and cold foods may indicate poor oral hygiene. If you have other symptoms, such as dry mouth .
These symptoms may be due to the side effects of some antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and mood stabilizers.
3. Activities to reduce stress and anxiety
Be sure to practice stress and anxiety-reducing activities such as deep breathing, mindfulness, yoga, and imagery to reduce the impact of poor mental health on your dental health.
https://www.healthshots.com/preventive-care/self-care/dental-health-and-mental-health-know-how-one-affects-the-other/