3 reasons why oral health is key to your wellbeing

1. Oral health supports physical health

The World Health Organization note that oral health is closely linked with overall health, wellbeing and quality of life [1]. Poor oral health is associated with various health conditions [2], including:

• cardiovascular disease (diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels)
• unfavourable pregnancy outcomes
• lung conditions
• diabetes
• stroke.

Tooth decay and gum disease sometimes result in tooth loss, which can make chewing and swallowing more difficult. This may make it harder for you to get enough nutrition, which can negatively impact your overall health and worsen any existing health conditions.

Many of the conditions that negatively impact oral health – including tooth decay and gum disease – are largely preventable [3].

On the flipside, good oral health helps ensure you get all the nutrients you need to stay healthy and reduces your risk of several health conditions.

If you’re into fitness, it may also help you perform at your peak. A 2020 review of 11 articles discovered a relationship between oral condition and physical fitness, body balance and heart and lung function, as well as cognitive function [4].

Furthermore, oral health is linked with longevity, with studies finding people who keep more teeth tend to live longer [5,6].

2. Oral health fosters mental wellbeing

Oral health is also linked to mental wellbeing. Because dental disease can impact your appearance and speech, it can have a negative effect on self-esteem and confidence.

This link has been highlighted by research. One study of over 1,000 adolescents aged 10 to 17 years found dental disorders (including tooth loss and untreated decay) had a profound impact on their appearance and psychosocial behaviour, thus affecting their self-esteem [7].

Similar results have been found in adults. Insurance company Cigna conducted a survey of 1,000 people aged 18 years and over [8]. They found 91% of respondents who said their oral health was excellent reported their self-confidence was excellent or very good. In contrast, only 37% of those who rated their oral health as fair or poor reported excellent or very good self-confidence.

Furthermore, people with an existing mental health condition are more likely to experience poor oral health [9]. This makes it especially important for them to have access to quality dental care and any tools and support they need to look after their oral health.

Oral health supports social wellbeing

The effects of poor oral health on physical and mental wellbeing can also lead to reduced participation in home, school, work and other social settings [2]. For example, the Cigna survey found 21% of respondents felt less confident about job interviews because of their smile or state of oral health, while 12% believed these held them back from getting a job or promotion.

Good oral health sets you up for social inclusion and participation, which is also vital for wellbeing.

Quick tips to get the most from your oral healthcare routine

It’s clear that good oral health supports wellbeing on several levels. The best news is that a few simple strategies built into your daily routine can help you maintain a healthy, bright smile – for life!

The Australian Dental Association [10] advises you should:

1. Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste.
2. Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes.
3. Eat a healthy, balanced diet and limit added sugar intake.
4. Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and preventive care.
   

Brush with confidence