Association of Dental Status and Dry Mouth With Mental Health in Elderly Patients Publisher

Summary: Can depression impact dental health? A study found that elderly patients with severe depression had worse oral health. Regular mental health assessments may improve dental care! #MentalHealth #OralHealth

Moghaddam F ; Tonkaboni A ; Karami MA ; Sargeran K
Source: Frontiers in Dentistry Published:2026

Abstract

Objectives: Psychological disorders are prevalent medical conditions that can negatively affect oral health. Due to the increase in the elderly population, and higher risk of psychological conditions in this age group, this study assessed the association of mental health evaluated by the 28-Item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) and oral health in the elderly patients. Materials and Methods: Overall, 150 elderly patients aged 60 years and higher presenting to the dental clinic of School of Dentistry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2019 participated in this cross-sectional study. Oral and dental examinations were conducted to assess the dental caries status using the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index, number of existing teeth, and self-reported dry mouth. Sociodemographic status, oral hygiene behaviors, and medical history of the participants were also recorded. The GHQ-28 was used to assess their mental health. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 25 using the correlation tests (alpha=0.05). Results: Of all the participants, 64 (42.7%) were females, and the age range was 60 to 90 years (mean age: 67.56±6.42 years). The mean total GHQ score was 4±3.8. The DMFT score and number of teeth had significant associations with severe depression and social dysfunction (P<0.05). Dry mouth was directly associated with the total GHQ score and anxiety (P<0.05). Conclusion: Elderly people with severe depression suffered from poor oral health. Comprehensive oral and dental examination and paying close attention to mental health aspects should be considered in regular dental check-ups and oral health promotion programs for the elderly. Copyright © 2026 The Authors.