Atlanta-based Benevis released a report highlighting the connection between oral health and mental health conditions.
Symptoms of depression have been linked with mild periodontitis, tooth decay, and missing larger numbers of teeth, according to a March 12 news release from the DSO.
In addition, chronic oral infections such as gum disease, contribute to systemic inflammation, which has also been connected to mental health conditions like depression and cognitive decline.
Benevis urged dental and mental health providers to work together, as improvements in oral health can lead to improvements in mental health and vice versa.
View the full report here.