In a recent breakthrough study, scientists have discovered an interesting connection between depression and microbiome diversity in the mouth. The findings reinforce the well-studied notion that oral health is hugely linked to physical and psychological wellbeing and even has the potential to indicate certain mental health problems.
The research analysed oral rinse samples from over 15,000 adults as part of the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Gene sequencing was then utilised to determine the diversity of the oral microbiome and was compared to questionnaires measuring symptoms of depression with saliva samples.
The results found that individuals suffering moderate to severe depressive symptoms had considerably less diverse oral microbiomes compared to those without symptoms. Further analysis found that smoking, drinking, antidepressant use, and dental care each influenced the dynamic between the oral microbiome and depression too.
Confirmation is pending on whether the direction of the relationship is solely depression affecting the oral microbiome, vice versa, or if the relationship is bi-directional. In the article published by BMC Oral Health, Dr Bei Wu of the New York University suggests that “It’s possible that the oral microbiome influences depressive symptoms through inflammation or changes to the immune system… We need more research to understand the direction and underlying pathways of this relationship.”
The findings do, however, strongly indicate potential to use the oral microbiome to treat or diagnose depression, and emphasises that dental professionals should pay closer attention to those diagnosed with depression, due to the evidenced correlation. “Having a better understanding of the relationship… could not only help us learn about the mechanisms underlying depression, but could contribute to the development of new biomarkers or treatments for mood disorders,” said Wu.
The gut’s bacterial diversity has been strongly linked to different conditions and illnesses including anxiety and diabetes. A recent study found a potential link between microbial diversity in the gut and depression and, with the mouth hosting between 500 billion and 1 trillion bacteria, more research doors are opened to the depths of potential research using samples from saliva.
As highlighted by Dentistry and New York University, experts are optimistic about the findings, with excitement surrounding the potential of using oral health checks to assist the diagnoses of mental health conditions. Furthermore, the idea posits that perhaps improving the diversity of oral microbiomes through better dental care and other means, could positively impact mental health.
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