Better Smile, Better Health

You might be aware of all the ways that your oral health affects your life and your mental health. Oral health and mental health have been linked in a variety of ways, and taking care of your mouth does more than make you feel better. Regular dental checkups can also help your dentist and doctor to understand how to find the best treatment. A routine dental checkup can improve your attitude, your perspective, and your approach to life.

Many who suffer from anxiety or depression have discovered their condition at the dental office. Bruxism (clenching or grinding of the teeth) often results from lifestyle factors such as anxiety or excessive use of alcohol. Many patients don’t even realize that they have been grinding their teeth, and their dental diagnosis may lead them consider how mental health could be the root of the issue. A follow up appointment with a medical doctor can help patients to change lifestyle habits or even to seek professional assistance for depression and anxiety.

The opposite can also be true –oral health problems have been linked not only to untreated dental or health conditions but also to medications used to treat mental health issues. Dry mouth is very common for patients taking medication for depression or anxiety. Dry mouth can lead to gum disease and other oral health problems. Your dentist knows how to help you manage side effects like dry mouth so that your oral health doesn’t suffer while you address your mental health.

Your smile is a major factor in your overall happiness and health as well. Research shows that smiling can do more for you than improve your mental health. Inc.com reports that when you smile you not only improve your mood but you may actually extend your life. A confident smile changes the way that people see you, and your smile is very important when you want to snag the perfect job, meet the right marriage partner, and keep supportive friends in your life.

When you have missing, broken, or stained teeth, you may be afraid to smile around others. Many people avoid smiling because they are worried about how their teeth look. This fear of showing your teeth makes you seem less approachable and can limit your ability to enjoy life. Smiling can also change the way your brain operates, but the fear of smiling deprives you of these beneficial effects.

Regular dental checkups don’t just keep your mouth and smile healthy. Monitoring your oral health can help you detect problems you might not otherwise uncover so that you can address them before they become major issues. Modern dentistry offers a vast variety of ways to improve your smile and make you feel more confident about showing your teeth.

Your dentist can also spot early symptoms of systemic health conditions, giving you and early warning about issues like acid reflux, anxiety, or body chemistry changes. If you tell your primary care physician about your dentist’s findings, you can address issues affecting your health as efficiently as possible. Early detection may allow you to prevent severe mental health issues. It is essential to discuss your oral health with both your dentist and your family doctor to maximize the benefits of your oral health care plan.

With regular dental care, your smile can be the key to a healthier lifestyle. Smiling more often can improve your mood and your health, and it’s contagious! When you smile at others, they are more likely to smile back, spreading the good humor to everyone around you. Contact us today and learn how to spread the happiness with great oral health!