Greenville, SC — Elina Howard’s TikTok video showed her brushing her teeth, with a caption revealing, “I knew [my depression] was getting bad again when even the simplest tasks felt like too much.”
As a stay-at-home mom in Greenville, SC, Howard, 30, has been candid about her mental health struggles on social media. Despite support from her husband, maintaining regular oral hygiene has been challenging during periods of anxiety and depression. For Howard, dental care often takes a backseat when prioritizing basic needs.
Research has long established a connection between mental health and oral hygiene, highlighting increased risks for tooth loss among individuals battling depression and anxiety. According to Zainab Mackie, a dentist from Grosse Pointe, MI, medications used to manage these conditions can lead to dry mouth, heightening cavity risks. Additionally, teeth grinding, common during periods of mental distress, can cause physical damage.
Dental professionals advise brushing teeth twice daily, daily flossing, and biannual dental visits. However, for individuals grappling with depression, adhering to these recommendations can seem daunting. Kojo Sarfo, a psychotherapist in Los Angeles, notes that routine tasks become overwhelming during depressive episodes, impacting self-care routines.
Suhail Mohiuddin, a dentist from Chicago, estimates that 15-20% of his patients have encountered oral health issues stemming from mental health challenges. Grace Mills, 25, echoes this sentiment, recounting struggles with consistent dental care amid personal hardships, such as bereavement and toxic relationships.
While therapy has bolstered Mills’ motivation for self-care, she acknowledges nightly brushing remains a hurdle. Posting her routines on TikTok serves not only as personal accountability but also aims to destigmatize mental health discussions.
Barriers to seeking dental care extend beyond daily routines. Mackie and Mohiuddin emphasize that irregular brushing can escalate into serious issues like cavities and gum disease. Fear of judgment or financial strain often deters individuals from scheduling dental appointments, perpetuating oral health neglect.
Howard and Mills both confess avoidance of dental visits due to embarrassment or economic constraints. Yet, professionals stress that dentists aim to support, not criticize, patients navigating dental care challenges.
Encouraging small steps, Mackie recommends mouthwash and xylitol gum to mitigate dental risks, while Mohiuddin suggests accessible pre-pasted disposable brushes. Sarfo emphasizes self-affirmation, urging individuals to recognize their inherent worth amidst mental health battles.
Ultimately, combating stigma and encouraging compassionate self-care are pivotal in improving oral health outcomes amidst mental health struggles.
For further insights on managing oral health amid mental health challenges, consult trusted dental professionals or mental health resources.
