Oral Health's Impact on Mental Wellbeing for Happier Aging Years
Poor oral health may increase the likelihood of developing depression and anxiety in older adults, according to a recent study. Researchers from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey found that older individuals who practiced good oral hygiene, such as brushing their teeth regularly and eating fruits and vegetables daily, were less likely to experience depression and anxiety.
Data was collected from 3,188 participants aged 65 and over. Key findings showed that those who brushed their teeth at least twice a day had a 22% lower chance of developing anxiety than those who practiced less frequent tooth-brushing. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables was also associated with a reduced risk of anxiety, while dental procedures to repair missing teeth decreased the risk of depression by 42%. Regular tooth brushing and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables also showed a lower incidence of dementia.
The researchers concluded that maintaining good oral health and dietary behavior are closely related to the susceptibility of middle-aged and elderly individuals to depression, anxiety, and dementia. However, it cannot be assumed that poor oral hygiene causes depression or anxiety. Instead, it may be a case of the reverse relationship, with depression and anxiety possibly reducing a person's ability to maintain good oral health.
As a reminder, good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining overall health. Skipping a 24-hour brush-and-floss routine can trigger periodontitis, severe gum disease that may result in tooth damage or loss. Other oral health issues, such as bowel disease and ulcerative colitis, can also stem from bacteria commonly found in the mouth.
Enhancing oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing. A balanced diet rich in vitamin C can prevent bleeding gums, while DIM (diindolylmethane) supplements can help maintain a healthy oral microbiome. Grape seed extract and echinacea are also effective in preventing gum disease.
Proper oral health is vital for a longer, healthier, and happier life. Besides promoting dental care, addressing the link between oral health and mental health is crucial to improving the overall well-being of older adults.
- The study suggests that maintaining good oral health, which includes brushing teeth regularly and consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, could lower the risk of developing anxiety in older adults.
- Researchers also found that dental procedures to repair missing teeth decreased the risk of depression in older individuals, highlighting the importance of oral health in brain health.
- Poor oral health might not directly cause depression or anxiety, but it may be associated with a higher susceptibility to these mental health issues, possibly due to a reverse relationship where mental health issues impair oral health maintenance.
- To maintain overall health and well-being, it's essential for older adults to follow a 24-hour brush-and-floss routine, eat a diet rich in vitamin C, and consider supplements like DIM, grape seed extract, and echinacea to ensure a healthy oral microbiome, while also addressing the link between oral health and mental health.
