When you think about dental health, you may focus on things like preventing cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, even the types of serious illnesses caused by periodontal disease. But, the effects of not caring for our and/or our pets’ teeth and gums extends further. Dental health and mental health are closely tied. This connection is gaining more attention, as research reveals that oral health problems can have far-reaching effects on our emotional state and cognitive function, and the same is true for our furry friends.
How Does Dental Health Affect Mental Health in People?
- Chronic Pain and Mental Well-being
For people, poor dental health often leads to chronic pain from untreated cavities, gum disease, or jaw disorders like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Ongoing pain equals stress, anxiety, and can lead to depression. Anyone who’s had a tooth infection or was in need of a root canal or extraction knows exactly what I’m talking about. I remember sitting up in bed all night, holding my jaw in my hand I was in so much pain, just waiting for morning, so I could call my dentist on a Sunday and beg him to come in to help. He did, thank goodness! This constant physical pain is depressing, affects sleep, and stops social interaction dead. For those dealing with dental pain ongoing, that kind of isolation is debilitating.
- Impact on Mental Health: Studies have shown that people with chronic dental pain are more likely to experience higher levels of anxiety and depression. Dental issues can affect eating, talking, and smiling, which also can erode confidence and contribute to low self-esteem. Sometimes just trying to dull the pain leads to addiction to pain meds. It is a slippery slope avoiding getting to the dentist when you need to, yet there are many who can’t afford dental care or have an aversion so strong to going to the dentist, they are stuck in an avoidance cycle. These people need support, guidance and assistance.
- Inflammation and Cognitive Function
There is a growing body of research that connects oral inflammation, especially from gum disease (periodontitis), to mental health conditions like depression and cognitive decline. Gum disease causes inflammation and untreated gum disease leads to chronic, systemic inflammation, which has been linked to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. I’ve seen what dementia can do, firsthand, as it ravaged my mom’s brain in her early 80’s, turning her from a vibrant, social person into someone who gradually went into a shell, where she didn’t know me or interact with anything around her. I am very conscious about taking care of my teeth.
- Impact on Mental Health: The bacteria that cause gum disease can travel through the bloodstream, causing inflammation in the brain, which may increase the risk of mental health disorders and cognitive decline. Because it travels through the bloodstream, organ systems like the heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas are also very susceptible, and studies also show periodontitis leads not only to diseases of these organs in us, but also in our pets.
- Social Anxiety and Self-esteem
People with noticeable dental issues, such as missing teeth, discoloration, or severe gum disease, often experience social anxiety, something we don’t talk about often. They may feel embarrassed or self-conscious about their smile, leading to a reluctance to engage socially or in professional settings.
- Impact on Mental Health: This avoidance of social interaction can contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are both risk factors for anxiety and depression. Restorative dental treatments like implants or orthodontics can dramatically improve self-esteem and mental health.
How Dental Health Impacts Mental Health in Pets
Our pets may not have to worry about public appearances or professional interactions (well, most, anyway), but their dental health is just as important to their mental well-being as it is for us. Poor oral health in pets can lead to physical pain, behavioral changes, and anxiety.
- Chronic Pain and Behavior
Just like us humans, pets can experience significant pain from dental diseases, such as periodontal disease, tooth abscesses, and fractured teeth. Since pets can’t communicate their discomfort, they often express it through changes in behavior. Dogs and cats with dental pain may become irritable, less playful, or may withdraw from interaction altogether.
- Impact on Mental Health: Untreated dental pain in pets can cause significant stress, anxiety, and behavioral issues like aggression, depression, or avoidance of social interactions. Pet parents often notice a boost in mood and increased energy after addressing their pet’s dental issues.
- Loss of Appetite and Mood Changes
Dental problems in pets can make eating painful, leading to a loss of appetite and weight loss. When pets are unable to eat properly, it not only affects their physical health but also their mental well-being. A hungry or malnourished pet can become anxious or lethargic, and the stress of being in pain can compound these feelings. If you notice your usually food-loving dog or cat suddenly dropping food, eating less or not eating, it’s very important to get that checked out. Make looking inside their mouths and getting their teeth checked part of your exploration into what could be wrong.
- Impact on Mental Health: A pet in pain from dental issues is less likely to engage in activities they once enjoyed. This decrease in activity and social interaction can lead to depression-like symptoms in pets.
- Behavioral Changes Linked to Oral Health
Some pets exhibit changes in temperament or behavior due to dental discomfort or pain. Cats may groom less, while dogs might become more aggressive or fearful. This behavioral shift can create a negative feedback loop, where a pet’s withdrawal or aggression leads to less attention and care, which in turn worsens their mental state. Be observant. You know your baby better than anyone. If you see changes you can’t easily explain, look into it.
- Impact on Mental Health: Addressing dental issues in pets can lead to improved mood, behavior, and overall quality of life. Once dental pain is treated, many pet parents report that their pets are more energetic, playful, and happier. I know that has applied to my own pup, Anabelle. Ani was adopted from a rescue and came with teeth that needed work. As the years went by, she eventually needed extractions and afterwards, it was obvious she felt like a new Chihuahua.
How to Maintain Good Dental Health for Better Mental Health
Both humans and pets benefit from maintaining good dental health, which can positively impact mental well-being. Here’s how you can help yourself and your pets stay healthy:
For People:
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Daily brushing and flossing help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and the inflammation that can impact mental health. Once I started flossing every day, it made a huge difference in my reports from my dentist and less visits to the dentist for problems.
- Get Regular Dental Check-ups: They are crucial for catching issues early and preventing them from worsening.
- Eat A Nutrient Dense Diet: If your body has the nutrients it needs to protect you and ward off environmental incoming, you are much less likely to experience dental disease. What we put in is what we get out of our bodies. None of us is perfect and that’s beautiful. We do our best to be mindful of what we know is good for us.
- Look at whether hormones might be affecting your gums and teeth: At varying stages of life for both women and men, hormone levels impact our oral health. It may not be the first thing you’d think of, and do consider it.
- Don’t Wait!: If you experience it, address. Do what you need to do to prevent long-term effects on your physical and mental health.
- Cosmetic Dentistry Can Make a Huge Difference: If you’re self-conscious about your smile, cosmetic procedures like whitening, braces, or implants can improve your confidence and mental outlook.
For Pets:
- Regular Dental Check-ups Are Key: Pets need regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their oral health. Vets can catch signs of dental disease early and provide treatments like cleanings or extractions.
- Brush Your Pet’s Teeth: Brushing your pet’s teeth at least three times a week can prevent plaque build-up and gum disease. When buying a pet toothbrush, make sure it soft to not irritate their gums. For toothpaste, check the ingredients. No chemicals. Look for herbal preparations or make your own. Sadly, many vets recommend toothpaste laden with chemicals, so do your own research.
- Feed Them A Nutrient Rich Diet: Just like for us, what we serve our pets to eat will greatly impact their health, good or bad. Fresh food is best, whether it be a raw diet or a gently cooked one. Research or reach out regarding your options to make sure your pup or cat’s immune system is strong and able to address the environmental toxins bombarding them every day.
- Provide Chews and Toys: Chews and toys that stimulate the gums can also help clean your pet’s teeth and gums naturally. One of the best ways to do this is through raw meaty bones. Raw meaty bones not only massage the gums and the gnawing cleans the animal’s teeth, but they are loaded with vitamins and minerals that are so healthy for our animals. Just make sure they are the appropriate type/size for your sized pet and the type of chewer they are, and they are never cooked, even a little, because that is dangerous. Also, make sure your pet is always supervised when chewing a raw meaty bone or any chew toy, as you never know when you might need to step in. Always, better safe than sorry.
- Monitor Your Pet’s Behavior: If your pet shows signs of discomfort, changes in behavior, or reluctance to eat, a dental issue could be the culprit. Don’t hesitate to consult your vet.
Dental health = better mental health, and this is an often overlooked but vital aspect of overall well-being for both people and pets. Poor oral health can lead to chronic pain, inflammation, social anxiety, and behavioral changes, all of which have a significant impact on one’s mental health. By prioritizing dental care, you’re not just protecting your teeth—you’re safeguarding your mental and emotional health, as well as that of your best friend.
