For someone who is missing one or more teeth, even the most casual social encounter is sufficient to spark self-consciousness and feelings of anxiety. No secrets there. What few people realize, however, is that having teeth that are missing or badly damaged can also have an adverse effect on a person’s quality of life and general sense of well being. In fact, researchers have found that the risk of depression increases significantly in adults who have poor oral health.

About the Australian Study

The study, which was conducted by Australian researchers, gathered data from 10,000 American men and woman ages 20 to 75. Each participant underwent a thorough evaluation and categorization according to the type and numbers of dental conditions present. One researcher shared that a strong relationship ties depression to the health of teeth and gums.

It turns out that the number and severity of dental health problems tends to be greater as the depression becomes more severe. What does this mean, exactly? A person who has been diagnosed with gum disease and/or tooth decay is more likely to feel strongly depressed, more so than someone who has good oral health or the infrequent cavity.

Implications of the Study

It is not yet clear how the two problems are related. According to another study, poor oral health may be caused by depression; this contrasts to the results of the study under discussion, which contends that poor oral health is precursor of sorts to episodes of depression. Regardless of which is most accurate, it is clear that the health of your teeth and gums has a greater impact on factors unrelated to your mouth and physical health.

About Your Conroe General Dentist

The Dental Centre of Conroe, John M Richards DDS delivers distinctive cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry for residents of Conroe, Houston, The Woodlands, Willis, Huntsville, and the neighboring communities. For more information about our services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us by calling (936) 441-4600.