No Smiling Matter: Oral Health is a Hidden Threat to Mental Health

Small actions lead to big change, and you can take simple steps towards wellness in many ways—one of which is right under your nose. Literally.

Did you know that an unhealthy mouth can throw off the balance of your gut, and when the gut is out of sync, the brain feels it. That’s because the gut plays a key role in producing mood-boosting chemicals. Without a balanced gut, symptoms like anxiety, brain fog, low mood and even depression can show up. In other words, oral health doesn’t just affect your teeth—it can influence your entire body, including your mental clarity and emotional well-being.

In fact, the Delta Dental of Arizona Oral Health and Wellness Report finds that three in four adults, on average, say oral health is closely related to mental health. As it relates to generational data, 71% of Gen X and Boomers are making the connection, while 76% of Gen Z and 82% of millennials feel strongly that there is a direct relationship between the two. Diving deeper into the findings, 23% of all respondents reported direct feelings of anxiety as a result of their oral health; 21% reported embarrassment over their appearance; 20% lost sleep over oral health; and 19% experienced direct feelings of sadness related to oral health.

The bottom line: healthy mouth, healthy mind, healthy body—they’re all connected.

While brushing twice a day, flossing once a day and scheduling regular preventative visits with the dentists are important, there are other simple actions you can take right now to improve your oral health, mental well-being and overall wellness that may be less obvious.

Take action: work toward a full night’s sleep.

Lack of rest negatively affects the entire immune system, making it easier for bacteria and germs to cause issues like canker or cold sores and increase the risk of gum disease. Poor sleep is also directly connected to bad breath! But it’s not just physical health—sleep plays a big role in mental health too. Without enough rest, you’re more likely to feel stressed, anxious, or down.

To improve the chances of a good night’s sleep, stick to a regular schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. During the day, maintain a healthy diet and make time for physical activity to allow the body to be naturally ready for rest.

Take action: prioritize your oral health at every stage of life.

It’s also important to consider how life changes—like pregnancy, menopause, and other health conditions—can influence both oral health, mental well-being, and overall wellness.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive and increase the risk of problems like gum disease and gingivitis. These changes can cause discomfort or worry, which may also affect a woman’s mental health during an already emotional time. On the other hand, menopause brings its own set of challenges. Shifting hormones can lead to dry mouth, receding gums, bone loss, and even tooth loss. These issues not only impact a woman’s physical health, but can also affect confidence, mood, and overall well-being.

As men age, naturally lower testosterone levels can contribute to tooth loss and gum recession. These hormonal changes may also increase the risk of chronic gum disease. Research has even found a link between gum disease and erectile dysfunction. These physical health challenges can take a toll on a man’s mental well-being, affecting self-esteem, stress levels, and overall quality of life.

Better oral health, mental well-being, and overall wellness may be as simple as changing a few habits and practicing good preventive oral health care. Plus, talk to your dentist about the health conditions you’re facing and how they’re affecting you. You can work together to create an action plan that will help you feel better.

Take action: maintain a healthy diet.

Food is medicine for the mind, body, and mouth! What you eat doesn’t just fuel your body—it can also support your mental health. Fruits and vegetables are good options for a healthy diet because they are packed with vitamins and minerals that support both physical and emotional well-being. So, when a sweet tooth strikes, skip the cookies and cake in favor of fresh fruits like strawberries or a juicy slice of watermelon. And take advantage of the summer season to enjoy colorful and delicious vegetables like cucumbers, peppers, green beans, peas, radishes, tomatoes, and zucchini.

And if you’re thirsty, skip the sodas. Water is always best, of course, but sugar-free iced tea is also refreshing without being harmful to your smile. Plus, staying hydrated can help you think more clearly and feel better overall.

Take action: stop tobacco use.

Tobacco use reduces blood flow to the mouth and gums, creates a compromised immune system, slows recovery from dental procedures, and creates bad breath. These symptoms easily put tobacco users at risk for serious health conditions like lung cancer and heart disease. Plus, nicotine can act as a stimulant that increases anxiety and stress over time leading to higher rates of mental health issues.

Mental health can’t wait. Turn awareness into action by making these small changes to support your oral health, mental well-being and overall wellness. You’ll feel more confident, build resilience, and feel empowered to help others take proactive steps toward wellness.