Your emotional state has an impact on how you dress and take care of yourself. If you’re feeling blue, you’re more likely to neglect self-care, such as brushing or washing your teeth. If one were to visit an institution and examine the inmates’ oral health, one would likely find some pretty shocking conditions. But what about the everyday person? Is there a connection between the condition of your teeth and your state of mind?
Linking the Symptoms
- Bruxism: Bruxism is the technical term for teeth grinding. A tense jaw from stress, anxiety, or nutritional deficiencies can contribute to wearing down enamel, creating tooth fractures, and causing jaw pain. Jaw pain can ruin a good mood. Avoiding stimulants, like caffeine and some medications, and using a mouth guard can help reduce bruxism and avoid damaging the surfaces of your teeth.
- Cavities and Tooth Decay: Cavities and decay are a direct result of not brushing one’s teeth and failing to remove foreign particles from the mouth after eating. These particles collect and grow bacteria, which produce acid byproducts. The acid eats away the tooth enamel, causing cavities. Failing to brush regularly will eventually lead to tooth decay. Change your habits and brush after every meal. Clean teeth and fresh breath can help you feel confident and refreshed.
- Dry Mouth: Psychiatric medications can cause dry mouth. Pharmaceuticals block some nervous system functions, preventing the normal flow of saliva. Saliva neutralizes the acidity of bacteria in the mouth and helps rebuild the tooth enamel with minerals. Without it, teeth and gums are more vulnerable. If you are considering a medication with side effects, get a complete physical examination first. Studies have shown a substantial portion of “mental disorders” are caused by physical ailments, like hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, or other conditions or illnesses. Your mood could improve significantly if these ailments are treated rather than masking symptoms that should be addressed before taking medication.
- Oral Infections: If you are connected to another person you think may be one of those “vampire personalities,” the connection will increase your stress levels, making you feel anxious, inadequate, or clumsy for no apparent reason. Research has found chronic stress reduces immune system response, opening you up to unwanted illnesses, like oral infections. The best way to improve your mental health? Avoid toxic personalities! The more you surround yourself with people who support you, the more likely you will have good health and happiness. Your good mood can even make you feel encouraged to smile more often.
Prevent Oral Woes with Proactive Healthcare
You don’t have to wait until you have a toothache to see a dentist. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you see a dentist for routine cleaning and check-ups twice a year. Many healthcare insurance policies offer dental programs that cover the cost of cleanings and reduce the cost of various treatments.
Take Better Care of Yourself and Feel Better
Clean teeth and a positive outlook on life are connected. All you do to maintain oral hygiene and health contributes to your overall mental well-being. Take care of your teeth and yourself for a win-win situation. If you’d like to know more about health insurance policies that can help, contact one of our agents today. We have access to the most reasonably-priced options with the best coverage and are happy to meet with you to review your existing health insurance or get you on a plan that works for you.