Research has established a connection between the use of antidepressants and a lower prevalence of periodontitis, a severe gum disease. A study led by María Martínez from University Complutense in Madrid found that individuals using antidepressants exhibited significantly reduced odds of developing periodontitis. The findings were published online on October 29, 2025, in the Journal of Periodontology.
The study analyzed data from 9,839 participants in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2009 and 2014. Researchers classified periodontitis according to guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They reported an overall prevalence of 35.3% for moderate periodontitis and 11.1% for severe cases.
The results indicate that antidepressant use was linked to a significant reduction in the likelihood of developing periodontitis across various definitions. Notably, the association was particularly pronounced for severe cases. The adjusted odds ratio for advanced periodontitis (stages III to IV) was 0.68, while the odds ratio for severe periodontitis stood at 0.41.
According to Ana Becil Giglio, president of the American Academy of Periodontology, the findings add a new dimension to the understanding of the relationship between mental health and oral health. In a statement, she remarked, “We have known for a long time that depression and gum disease can influence each other. This study adds an intriguing new layer, suggesting that antidepressant use may help protect against severe forms of periodontal disease.”
These findings could have significant implications for the way mental health treatment intersects with physical health, particularly in relation to dental care. As the prevalence of periodontitis remains a concern, further research may explore the protective effects of antidepressants on oral health, potentially influencing treatment protocols for patients with depression.
The study emphasizes the importance of considering the holistic nature of health, where mental well-being may play a critical role in preventing physical ailments. As healthcare providers increasingly recognize the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, these insights could lead to more integrated approaches to treatment and patient care.
For more information, refer to the complete study by María Martínez et al., titled “Reduced Prevalence of Periodontitis in Antidepressant Users: Findings from a Large-Scale US Sample,” published in the Journal of Periodontology.
