How Mental Health Correlates with Subjective Oral Health Status: A Cross‑Sectional Study among a Group of University Students

Abstract

Aim: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the association between subjective oral health status and mental illness in a group of  university students in Riyadh City of Saudi Arabia. 

Materials and Methods: A self-report questionnaire collected data on demographics,  subjective oral health and mental health. The Arabic version of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety  Disorder (GAD-7) scales were administered. Students’ participation was voluntary. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for  Social Sciences (SPSS). 

Results: A total of 614 students participated in the study, 45.28% (n = 278) were males and 54.72% (n = 336) were  females. Oral health status was assessed, and most participants rated their oral health status as good 53.75% (n = 330). This study also  assessed mental health among the participants and found that 50.49% (n = 310) of students were suffering from different degrees of  depression. Approximately, 46.74% (n = 247) of students reported experiencing certain degrees of generalized anxiety disorder. Mental  disorders were significantly correlated with subjective oral health status, since participants who rated their oral health as poor or very  poor tended to have higher PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores.

In conclusion, the findings showed a notable relationship between mental  disorders and subjective oral health status among a group of university students. Therefore, the results can be used to help improve  service provision, which would ultimately enhance students’ mental health.