A whole host of studies has looked at the physical consequences of mental illness. Today, it is known that this connection is bidirectional in nature:
For instance, while suffering from a mental illness increases the risks of significant physical/medical comorbidity, including diabetes, heart disease and stroke (Lawrence et al, 2000), it has also been shown that many “primarily medical” conditions increase the risks of mental illness.
Among the most prominent, suffering from diabetes, inflammatory illnesses or cancer is associated with higher chances of depression (Katon, 2011).
However, to this date very little is known about whether these links between “body and mind” also extend to oral health. Poor oral health has been linked with systemic illnesses such as coronary heart disease, diabetes or respiratory disease, which may mediate links with mental health (Arigbede et al, 2012; Humphrey et al, 2008).
In addition, dental hygiene affects eating and speech, and thus has an impact on social and psychological aspect of life (Mirza, 2001). To review the evidence out there, Kisely and colleagues have recently presented a systematic review and meta-analysis (Kisely et al, 2015).
This is definitely a problem with me . I have a broken tooth and many missing teeth. Several factors play into this including not going to dentist much because of dental phobia, grinding my teeth and having an uneven bite, and poor oral hygiene. The latter was noted in my psychiatric notes while an inpatient over 34 years ago . It is probable that that is indicative of poor self care. One thing I struggle with is trying to remember to do basic tasks like brushing my teeth.
I think bad teeth can also have an effect on your mental health especially your self confidence and your self esteem. I was never a candidate for “Photo hunks monthly” anyway but when I open my mouth I know I look like one of those decrepit peasants from a period movie. It definitely furthers the belief that people are going to think negatively of me and thus the social anxiety and the paranoia.
Some say I could have my missing teeth replaced but I just can’t face going to the dentist on my own(I have no one near) and the last experience involving removal of a tooth with a long root was horrendous. I developed dry socket and was in excruciating pain.