Mental health awareness

Delta Dental of Minnesota understands that there is a deep connection between oral and overall health. In the same way, we know that a healthy routine includes care for your mental health.

Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in adults and children. Anxiety can manifest with physical symptoms such as increased heart rate and sweaty palms. In children, stomachaches and headaches can be a sign of anxiety. Anxiety can also impact your oral health by causing dry mouth, teeth grinding or increasing the risk of canker sores. Many people with anxiety can also have depression. Thankfully, the stigma of mental health has lessened and there are many resources that can be helpful if you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms.

One of the best ways to help manage when life seems out of control is to focus on the things you CAN do, including self care. For example, you could participate in the following:

Going out for a walk.
Cooking a favorite recipe at home.
Reading any genre or materials (books, magazines, blogs, etc.) you enjoy.
Binge-watching new streaming content or re-visiting a beloved sitcom or movie.
Taking time to just breathe— sit, plant your feet on the ground, close your eyes and breathe in while counting to five, then slowly release.
Noticing and appreciating warm weather and nature around you— budding plants, birds chirping, warm sunshine, etc.
Calling a friend.

To ensure you continue to care for your oral health, try to do the following:

Find a dental professional who you feel safe and comfortable with so that you are more likely to schedule and attend regular appointments and avoid putting off needed treatments.
Keep up with your regular oral health routine. Brushing for two minutes twice per day and flossing are absolutely essential when it comes to keeping your mouth healthy.

If you notice changes to your mental health, make an appointment with a physician for help and more resources.

Find more information here:

https://www.crisistextline.org/topics/anxiety/#what-is-anxiety-1

https://www.deltadental.com/grinmag/us/en/ddpa/2017/wellness/oral-and-mental-health-connection.html

Eileen Crespo, MD

Dr. Eileen Crespo is the Vice President of Medical Services at Delta Dental of Minnesota. She is a practicing pediatrician of over 25 years. She graduated from Syracuse University with a BS in Biology and received her medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo. She is currently a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Co-Chapter Oral Health Advocate (COHA) of the Minnesota American Academy of Pediatrics, and a member of the Board of Directors of Children’s Dental Services, and the Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.