THE BIDIRECTIONAL LINK BETWEEN MENTAL DISORDERS AND ORAL DISEASES: A REVIEW

• Dr.A. Backiyalakshmi,  
• Dr. Lavanya,  
• Dr. Divya VC*

Abstract

The interrelationship between oral health and systemic health is widely known concept. Similar is the case between mental disorders and oral diseases where a well appreciable yet complex interrelationship is observed. Various oral health problems are associated with mental health problems, with their interplay involving altered microbiome, translocated bacteria, and systemic inflammation, among others. Patients with mental disorders have greater risk factors for oral and dental disease compared to the general population. This could be attributed to the side effects of the medications, lack of self-care, inaccessible health services, a missing positive attitude towards healthcare providers, and lack of cooperation to dental treatments. A multidisciplinary approach is the need of the hour in caring for patients with mental disorders, and the importance of oral health should be stressed as an essential part of care for these patients. Future investigations should focus on deeper exploration of the biological relationships, to develop new directions for treatment. This review delivers an analysis of the link between mental disorders and the effect on dental health, as well as the significance of oral diseases as a probable etiological factor in mental disorders.

Keywords

oral diseases,mental disorders,oral health