Health Studies

A recent scientific study published in the journal Frontiers in Oral Health has shown that psychological state not only affects a person’s mood but also extends to oral and dental health. During the study, researchers analyzed data from 650 adults, assessing symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as oral health-related quality of life, using the internationally recognized PHQ-9, GAD-7, and OHIP-14 questionnaires.

The results revealed a positive correlation between the severity of depression and anxiety symptoms and participants’ declining assessments of their dental and gum health, as well as the impact of oral problems on their daily lives. This relationship was notably stronger among individuals suffering from severe depression and anxiety.

Researchers also observed that lower oral health scores were more common among people aged 45 and older, and among those from middle-income families. The researchers suggest that these findings should prompt dentists to take patients’ psychological conditions into account, and that incorporating assessments of anxiety and depression into comprehensive care plans could be an important step in enhancing the prevention and treatment of oral and dental diseases.

Many health experts point out that stress and anxiety negatively affect various hormones and vitamin absorption in the body, leading to a weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to diseases, including oral and dental conditions. Additionally, some individuals with anxiety and stress suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), which can cause damage and breakage of teeth over time if left untreated.

Source: Lenta.ru