Periodontal Treatment and Psychology

The Effect of Periodontal Treatment on Depression, Body Image, Self-Esteem and Anxiety in Depressed Patients: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

There is a relationship between depression and periodontal disease. This relationship may be double-sided. A psychological state such as anxiety, depression, body image, and self-esteem may be affected from the symptoms of periodontal disease.

Background: Depression is a multi-factorial disease characterized by a variety of symptoms. Psychiatric disorders seem to be more prone to periodontitis compared to patients without psychiatric disorders. However periodontal disease and depression can be considered bidirectional risk factors. Periodontal disease can also be an effect on depression. The aim of this randomized controlled clinical study is to determine the effect of non-surgical mechanical periodontal treatment on psychological state.

Material and methods: The study population consisted of 184 depressed patients with non-treated periodontal diseases. Two randomized group is formed from these patients. Immediately periodontal treatment (test group, n = 92) and delayed periodontal treatment (control group, n = 92). Clinical periodontal and psychological measures were performed at baseline and 6th weeks on control and test group.

Inclusion Criteria:

• the presence of periodontal diseases,
• the presence of diagnosed minor depression
• being under maintenance therapy regarding the depression

Exclusion Criteria:

• any hormonal condition such as pregnancy or lactation
• received any periodontal treatment within six months