A inter-relação entre depressão e saúde bucal em idosos: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

The increase in life expectancy observed in recent years has directly impacted the rise in the elderly population, which is considered to be people aged 60 years or older. Consequently, there is also a significant increase in chronic and mental diseases, as well as the emergence of oral health issues. Studies have suggested a possible relationship between mental health condition and oral health. Thus, the objective of this study was to conduct an integrative literature review in order to discuss the possible relationship between depression and oral condition in the elderly. Thus, a search was conducted in the LILACS, SciElo, BBO Odontology, and PubMed databases. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established, and then 09 articles were selected for discussion of their most relevant findings. The evaluated studies suggest that there is an interrelationship between depression and oral health that should be recognized and explored in dental care for elderly patients. Highlighting that people with oral cavity diseases, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, cavities, and tooth loss, are more likely to develop symptoms of depression. Moreover, individuals facing the condition of depression often exhibit inadequate oral hygiene, which, when combined with the side effects of psychotropic medications, such as xerostomia, can further worsen poor oral condition. Thus, it is observed that the promotion of oral health, especially in elderly patients — who are more susceptible to the development of systemic comorbidities of an organic or mental nature — requires a multidisciplinary approach, capable of providing comprehensive and humanized care, encompassing both dental and psychological aspects.