Dental and Mental health may seem completely different, but it turns out they have a deep connection and ignoring one could put the other at risk. Research has demonstrated that poor mental health can contribute to deteriorating oral health, while dental issues can worsen mental health conditions. Individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders often struggle with keeping up with their daily oral hygiene. Feelings of lack of motivation or heightened stress can lead to neglecting essential dental care routines, which then increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and many other complications. And surprisingly, many psychiatric medications contribute to dry mouth, which accelerates tooth decay and oral infections. On the other hand, the consequences of poor oral health itself can be psychologically damaging. Dental pain or visible dental issues can lower people's self-esteem or exacerbate conditions like depression and anxiety.
https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/how-dental-health-and-mental-health-are-connected
Addressing this issue requires a more integrated approach to healthcare. Dental and mental health professionals need more collaboration between each other so they can improve both treatment outcomes and preventative care. People experiencing difficulties in either area should seek professional support as intervention in one area can significantly benefit the other.
Here are some affordable options for the Portland area:
Mental Health:
Multnomah County Behavioral Health Call Center:
503-988-4888
Offers free behavioral health support, language interpretation, referral to low cost agencies, help finding health support, etc.
William Temple House:
https://www.williamtemple.org/our-services/counseling/
Offers affordable counseling services to individuals, couples and families, they help clients achieve their therapeutic goals.
Portland Therapy Center:
https://www.portlandtherapycenter.com/sliding-scale-affordable-therapy-50-and-under
Offers a directory of therapists in Portland who provide sliding scale services under $50.
Dental Health:
Portland Community College Dental Clinic:
https://www.pcc.edu/dental-clinic/
Provides free preventive and restorative dental care. Licensed professionals supervise the student clinics, ensuring high-quality services.
OHSU Dental Clinics:
https://www.ohsu.edu/dental-clinics/costs-and-insurance
Offers comprehensive dental services at reduced rates, 30% to 40% lower than private practices, making it a viable option for uninsured patients.
Gateway Grace Dental Clinic:
https://www.pacsonline.org/dental
This clinic also offers comprehensive dental care to adults earning up to 300% of the federal poverty line and is run by Portland Adventist Community Services.
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