Nathan (Australia), Jul 2 (The Conversation) People with mental health challenges confront numerous obstacles. One notable, yet often overlooked, issue is their increased propensity for poor oral health compared to the broader population. Research indicates that individuals with serious mental health conditions are four times more likely to suffer from gum disease and nearly three times more prone to losing all their teeth due to gum disease and tooth decay.
Serious mental illnesses, such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, affect about 800,000 Australians. Those living with schizophrenia typically have eight more teeth that are decayed, missing, or filled than the general population.
The underlying question is, why does this connection exist, and what solutions are available to address this issue?
Why is this a problem? Oral health problems are costly to fix and can hinder individuals' ability to eat, socialize, work, or even smile. Furthermore, dental issues can lead to hospitalizations. Our research reveals that dental conditions are the third most common reason for preventable hospital admissions among those with serious mental illness.
Moreover, poor oral health is linked to long-term health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and cognitive problems. This is largely due to bacteria from gum diseases causing inflammation throughout the body, affecting various systems.
Why are mental health and oral health linked? Poor mental and oral health have overlapping risk factors. Social factors such as isolation, unemployment, and housing insecurity can aggravate both. For instance, unemployment may increase oral disease risk due to financial constraints, hindered access to oral healthcare, or changes in diet and hygiene practices. Conversely, oral disease can heighten employment barriers due to stigma, pain, and associated long-term health conditions.
This relationship is bidirectional. Dental disease can lower self-esteem and heighten psychological distress, while symptoms of mental health conditions, such as low motivation, may impede proper oral health practices like brushing, flossing, and dental visits. Additionally, anxiety about dental visits, past trauma, or certain medications can exacerbate oral health issues, e.g., by reducing saliva production or increasing sugar cravings, heightening tooth decay risk.
Our research In a recent study, we interviewed young individuals with mental illness, highlighting the significant personal toll of dental disease and its relationship with mental health. Smiling, a primary communication method, can be impacted. Participants expressed embarrassment and shame about smiling due to poor oral health, affecting their self-esteem and triggering isolation.
One participant shared that poor oral health affects self-esteem, confidence, and well-being, leading to isolation. Another remarked on the fear of dental critique due to depression's impact on oral hygiene practices.
What can we do? Our study targeting young adults with mental health difficulties found that a brief online oral health education program improved knowledge and attitudes. Enhanced oral health can bolster mental wellbeing, self-esteem, and quality of life, though achieving this can be challenging.
Limited Medicare dental care coverage often results in delayed treatment for oral diseases, leading to more invasive procedures like tooth removal. A holistic healthcare approach is crucial, involving mental health professionals addressing oral health and dental practitioners trained for the unique needs of those with serious mental illness. Increased government funding for promotion, prevention, and interdisciplinary care collaboration is imperative, integrating health, mental health, and peer support sectors effectively. (The Conversation) NSA NSA
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