Could brushing and flossing lift your mood?
Mental health is a subject of significant interest at the moment, and leading experts have been sharing their tips to try and lift your mood if you’re feeling low. You may be surprised to see brushing and flossing in a list that includes getting out into the fresh air and doing a workout, but studies suggest that there is a link between periodontal disease (advanced gum disease) and depression.
It is thought that the risk of periodontal disease may be increased by depression, which can hamper the efficacy of the body’s immune system. Dr Uchenna Okoye, from London Smiling, suggests that brushing twice a day, flossing and seeing a dentist can help to stave off gum disease and cavities, as well as giving you a more attractive smile, which is likely to boost your confidence. Gum disease is the most common cause of tooth loss, and losing a tooth can have a profound impact on self-esteem and the way you behave around other people.
Other self-help techniques, which can help to make you feel better, include reading, listening to music, meditating, speaking to friends and getting out into the sunshine.
Nutritionists also recommend cutting down on sugary snacks, which can cause your energy levels to peak and trough, advice that is also put forward by dentists. When you eat sugary foods, you may get a quick burst of energy, but this leads to a sudden slump, and when your blood sugar is low and you feel lethargic, you can crave more sugar and you find yourself in a vicious cycle.
Numerous studies have linked attractive smiles to increased confidence, and this is one of the main reasons cosmetic dentistry and adult orthodontics have become so popular. If you’re happy with your smile, you’re more likely to show it off. If you’re conscious about your teeth, this can make you feel awkward in social situations and hold you back when it comes to scenarios like dating or applying for jobs.
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