You probably know the importance of your physical and oral health. It’s easy to notice when something isn’t quite right with our oral health, whether it’s a toothache or a cavity. Poor mental health is harder to identify, as are its causes. In fact, your oral hygiene may be the sneaky culprit.

May is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, but many people aren’t aware that mental and oral health are connected. Good oral hygiene helps to keep your mental health in check. Meanwhile, dental issues like tooth decay and gum diseases often accompany poor mental health.

Your mental well-being can have notable effects on your dental hygiene and vice versa. In this article, Shelby Dental will discuss the connection between mental well-being and oral health and how to maintain them both.

The Connection Between Dental Hygiene & Mental Health

Taking good care of your mental health is important for your overall health – including oral hygiene. If someone is dealing with a mental health issue, it may affect their motivation to keep up with good personal hygiene and oral healthcare. Some might turn to unhealthy habits such as smoking to cope with their feelings, which can have a harmful effect on their oral and overall health.

On the other hand, poor dental hygiene can have a significant impact on your mental health. Not only can it lead to physical pain and discomfort, but it can also cause feelings of isolation, shame, and embarrassment. A smile is often the first thing people notice about you, so if you’re self-conscious about your teeth, it’s likely to affect your confidence.

Research has shown that poor dental hygiene can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, social isolation, and even suicidal thoughts. This is because when we feel embarrassed or ashamed of our appearance, it affects our mental well-being. It’s important to maintain good oral health in order to protect both your physical and mental health.

The correlation between your mental and oral health is often overlooked, but one impacts the other. Fortunately, researchers have found that taking care of your teeth and keeping them healthy can also help improve your mental well-being.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Mental and Dental Health

Visit The Dentist Regularly

Visiting the dentist regularly is important for both your physical and mental health. Routine dental check-ups can help identify any potential issues early before they become more serious. Additionally, regular visits to the dentist can help reduce stress and anxiety, as well as improve your overall mood.
You can ensure your teeth and gums are healthy by scheduling appointments with your dentist once or twice a year.

Limit Substance Use

Substance use can harm your mental and dental health, as well as your overall well-being. It is important to beware of alcohol and drugs to maintain good physical and mental health. Excessive substance use can lead to addiction, depression, anxiety, and other serious health issues.
Substance use can significantly affect dental health, with both short-term and long-term consequences. Alcohol and drugs can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. These effects can be even more severe if the substance is used in combination with tobacco products.

Find a Routine and Build Healthy Habits

Establishing routine and healthy habits is vital for mental health. It can help to create a sense of stability and provide a sense of control over your life. Having a routine can also help to reduce stress, as it gives you something to focus on and promotes feelings of ownership.

Brushing your teeth, exercising, eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, and taking time for self-care are all examples of activities that can be incorporated into your daily routine. These activities can help to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms while promoting overall mental well-being. In addition, having a consistent schedule may also improve productivity and focus throughout the day.

Trusted Dental Care in Calera, AL, with Shelby Dental

Mental and dental health go hand-in-hand, so taking your dental care seriously is essential. Regular check-ups at the dentist can be highly beneficial for your health – both oral and mental. It’s a good idea to schedule an appointment at least twice a year to catch any dental issues early and address them promptly.

Are your teeth causing you trouble with your mental health? Restoring your smile with same-day dentures can help to rebuild your self-confidence and improve your mental well-being.

For 25 years, Shelby Dental has provided top-notch dental and denture services to the Calera area. Our experienced and friendly staff can offer detailed advice, reliable care, and expert treatments at our full-service clinics. Our denture fitting service promises same-day results so you can show off your confident and bright smile as soon as possible. Whatever your dental needs may be, we are here for you.

Make Your Appointment With Shelby Dental Today!

Shelby Dental is Calera, AL’s go-to place for denture and dental services. We provide the highest quality dental services, from regular checkups to same-day denture fittings. Give us a call at 205-235-3371 or contact us online to take care of all your dental needs today!