According to Dr. Korinis, “Poor oral health is extremely common, and when it progresses, it can lead to a substantially reduced quality of life, including loss of confidence in your appearance.”
The results of the study on 64,379 adults showed that those with periodontal disease had a higher likelihood of having a diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, cardio metabolic disease, autoimmune disease and mental illness, such as depression and anxiety, the study reported.
“Our study demonstrates a significantly increased risk of all mental health illnesses in patients with periodontal disease,” the study stated. “The potential psychological impact of periodontal diseases is an issue that has, up till now been under-reported in the literature.”
Other studies have offered insight about how dental health can affect other parts of the body. In a study earlier this year of 34,000 adults, researchers found those with more tooth loss faced a 48% higher risk of cognitive impairment and 28% higher risk of dementia, McClachy News reported.