A healthy smile is a key to a healthy life. While oral health is often linked to physical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, it also plays a role in mental health. This connection is especially important in the workplace, where stress, self-confidence, and daily habits impact both.
By understanding the link between oral health and mental well-being, employees and employers can take steps to create a healthier work environment, and in turn, healthier employees.
How poor oral health affects mental well-being at work
According to the American Psychiatric Association, there’s a “clear connection” between oral health and mental well-being. When oral health declines, it can have a negative impact on mental health at the workplace in the following ways:
Lower confidence: Dental issues like decayed or missing teeth can lead to lower self-esteem, leading to hesitation in meetings, avoiding social interactions, or refraining from smiling. Over time, this can affect confidence, productivity, and even career growth.
Difficulty concentrating: Oral pain can significantly impact productivity. Research shows individuals with oral pain are almost 14 times more likely to struggle at work or school. Discomfort from oral health conditions like toothaches can even cause headaches, making it harder to focus.
Increased anxiety or depression: Living with dental pain or self-consciousness about your smile can heighten stress, and high levels of stress may increase the risk of depression and anxiety.
How workplace stress can harm oral health
The connection between oral health and mental well-being is a two-way street, and work-related stress is a growing concern as 74 percent of employees report having negative mental health at work. Chronic stress often leads to unhealthy habits that can harm oral health in the following ways:
Teeth grinding and poor diet: Stress can cause teeth grinding, which contributes to worsening oral health conditions. In addition, high levels of workplace stress can lead to overeating, often involving high-fat, sugary, or unhealthy foods, and excessive consumption of alcohol, both of which increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Neglecting oral hygiene: Depression and anxiety can make daily tasks overwhelming, including oral health care. If someone is struggling with their mental health, they may be more likely to skip brushing, flossing, or dental checkups, increasing risk of gum disease and decay.
Skipping dental visits: Busy schedules, tight deadlines, and workplace stress can lead people to put off dental care. Skipping routine check-ups can allow minor issues to escalate, affecting both oral health and mental well-being.
Breaking the cycle: How to prioritize oral health and mental well-being
Prioritizing oral health in the workplace requires effort from both employees and employers. While individuals can take steps to improve their well-being, there is a growing need for employers to create stronger support systems.
A recent report shows that 78 percent of workers don’t think their employer is doing enough to address their mental wellness at work. By adopting these small changes, both parties can help make improvements:
For employees:
- Keep a hygiene kit at work complete with a toothbrush and floss.
- Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth.
- Take breaks to reduce stress.
- Keep healthy snacks around to snack on.
- Use your dental benefits! Visit the dentist regularly even just for check-ups.
For employers:
- Encourage open conversations about mental health.
- Offer wellness programs that address stress and overall health.
- Allow flexible scheduling for preventive oral health care appointments.
Oral health and mental well-being go hand in hand
Your smile and mental health are more connected than you might think. By prioritizing oral health and mental well-being, you can improve both your workplace performance and overall quality of life.
Need a check-up? Find a dentist and schedule an appointment today!
Mental health support resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Provides advocacy, education, and support.
- Crisis Text Line: Offers free, 24/7 support by texting HOME to 741741.
- New Mexico Mental Health Resources