Your health matters tremendously, and we mean more than just your oral health. Your physical health, mental health, and more contribute to a lot more than you might readily expect, and as such, it is imperative you take strides to ensure you are taken care of and healthy. This Sunday, October 10, is World Mental Health Day, and your Leawood, KS dentist would like to dedicate today’s blog to discuss the link between mental and oral health, as well as how our team can step in and help to ensure the best for you and your situation.
World Mental Health Day
This Sunday, October 10, 2021, our team acknowledges World Mental Health Day. This is an international day for global mental health education, awareness, and advocacy for those who are enduring or have endured mental illness and the stigma associated with it. Mental illness is a very real truth and reality for many patients, and it can be difficult to seek help when facing negative backlash from society. As such, we offer support and understanding when we tell you that what you are going through is valid, and we extend our help however we can.
World Mental Health Day was first celebrated in 1992, which is a relatively recent endeavor. Though there is more recognition today than there was years ago, there is still much work to be done. Mental illness can severely impact various aspects of your life, including your mood, ability to process situations, and overall care and hygiene. To learn more about these lasting impacts and about the resources out there to help, contact our team or visit mentalhealth.gov today.
The Connection to Oral Health
It goes without saying that your mental health impacts your entire body, and your oral health is no exception. In fact, anxiety, depression, and a variety of others can lead to the development of unhealthy coping habits such as smoking or drinking. Tobacco use and alcohol are bad for your teeth, as they cause them to weaken, stain, and overall become brittle.
Additionally, it can lead to loss of appetite and cause poor nutrition, consumption of too many sugary items, dry mouth, and more. All of these factors contribute to structures that do not receive the appropriate care they deserve, and without necessary care, can lead to infections, decay, and tooth loss.
Things to Keep in Mind
When battling mental illness, taking care of your smile is much easier said than done. What’s more? There are social hurdles that make receiving the care you need – or even knowing who to trust and talk to – more difficult. As such, we want to reach out and let you know that we are here, we will be patient, and we want to help our patients and patient families to prioritize their health in any way that we can.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about the connection between mental and oral concerns, contact Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS by calling 913-681-5500 and speak with a member of our team.
