New study suggests that good oral health can be as much about the mind as it is about the mouth

The research shows those suffering from sadness, helplessness and other symptoms of depression, are almost 20 per cent more likely to also have severe gum disease.

Published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, scientists monitored the oral and mental health of more than 500 people from birth until the age of 30.

The study makes a connection between depression and the body’s ability to fight off inflammation – a sign of gum disease. It also suggests that young people with symptoms of depression are more likely to neglect their oral health.

Nigel Carter, CEO of the Oral Health Foundation, believes the study highlights how good oral health can be as much about the mind as it is about the mouth.

Nigel says, “Gum disease and feelings of depression are two common conditions that most of us might suffer from at some point in our lives.  Following this study, we now know these problems are linked and often occur together.