When it comes to being concerned about children’s mental health, parents blame the “usual suspects”- Social media, staying up late, and sometimes unhealthy eating habits. However, studies are looking beyond these. According to new research, there’s one daily habit which not only has the potential to influence a child’s physical health, but it can also affect their mental well being. The shocking part is that the reason is less about biology and more about society.
How oral hygiene is related to mental health
Research suggests that there’s an important connection between oral and mental health in children, and it can have an impact on a child’s confidence, emotional wellbeing, school experience, and even social relationships. The study notes that something as simple as brushing and flossing regularly may contribute to their overall quality of life.
1 Jul 2026 | 14:18
Should schools be banned from giving complex holiday homework to kids which ultimately parents end up doing?
Not just screens: Studies suggest your child’s mental wellbeing may also be linked to how well they care for their teeth
Research published in the American Journal of Orthodontics found that teeth are the number one physical feature targeted by bullies in school-age children. Kids bullied about their smile reported lower self-esteem and had a negative perception towards school. Since bullying itself is associated with social isolation and depression, poor oral health can have consequences that extend far beyond the mouth. The pain from dental problems was also associated with social-emotional struggles in kids.
How common are dental problems
Dental problems in children are quite common. A poll conducted by C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll, Michigen, US, surveyed 1,801 parents of children aged 4 to 17 years to understand children’s oral health habits. They found that more than 36% of parents said their child had experienced dental problems in the previous two years. The most common issues included cavities or tooth decay, stained or discoloured teeth, tooth pain or sensitivity, and gum problems. When it came to maintaining oral hygiene, the findings weren’t very impressive. The poll revealed that only 3 in 5 parents said that their child regularly brushes their teeth twice a day. Over one-third of parents noticed that their child has bad breath.
Not just screens: Studies suggest your child’s mental wellbeing may also be linked to how well they care for their teeth
Why poor oral health is more dangerous now
Children today are exposed to several lifestyle factors that can increase their risk of dental problems. Frequent snacking, sugary and ultra-processed foods, and acidic drinks such as soft drinks and energy beverages mean that teeth are exposed to acids and sugars more often throughout the day, raising the risk of cavities and enamel erosion.Also, children are growing up in an age of social media. Filtered images posted online can make children more conscious of how they look, including their smiles. Since research has shown that children are often bullied because of the appearance of their teeth, poor oral health may affect not only their physical wellbeing but also their confidence, self-esteem, and social experiences.
