The Surprising Relationship Between Your Child’s Dental Health and Their ADHD Symptoms

Operating a clinic specializing in children with ADHD and autism, we have seen firsthand the incredible impact that good oral health can have on our patients overall well-being. 

As a parent, searching for ways to help your child feel their best and manage their ADHD symptoms effectively is key to helping them thrive.

Did you know that taking care of your child’s teeth and gums can actually have a positive effect on their brain function?

Today we want to share with you the surprising connection between oral health and improved brain function in children with ADHD and autism.

Five ways in which good oral hygiene can lead to better brain function:

1. Having cavities and gum disease can be stressful and anxiety-inducing for children, especially when it comes to their cognitive function. Pain and discomfort caused by dental issues can make it hard for children to concentrate and focus, leading to an increase in symptoms of ADHD like impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity.
   
   With an approachable tone, we want to let parents know that they can help their children by taking steps to protect their teeth and gums, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular checkups. Doing so can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and cognitive issues for their children.
   
   
2. When children are in constant pain or discomfort due to toothaches and oral infections, it can be difficult for them to stay calm and focused, leading to increased impulsivity and hyperactivity. Not only that, but it can also interfere with their ability to concentrate, focus, and pay attention, exacerbating symptoms of ADHD. On top of that, chronic pain and discomfort can cause stress and anxiety levels to rise, further impacting their ability to concentrate and pay attention. 
   
   There is hope! With the right help and support, your child can find relief from their oral pain and discomfort, allowing them to relax and focus more easily. This can help to reduce symptoms of ADHD, as well as promote a sense of wellbeing and improved concentration.
   
   
3. It’s no secret that chronic toothaches and oral infections can cause children to miss school, leading to educational and social difficulties. Unfortunately, when children with ADHD miss school, they can fall behind in their studies, and this can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety.
   
   This can make it even harder for them to stay focused and attentive in class, further complicating their ability to manage their ADHD symptoms.
   
   
4. Children with untreated dental problems are more likely to experience low self-esteem, depression, and behavioral problems. When children suffer from untreated dental problems, such as cavities or gum disease, they can experience a great deal of pain and discomfort, which can interfere with their daily lives. This can lead to feelings of shame and embarrassment, which can negatively impact their self-esteem.
   
   Moreover, chronic pain and discomfort can cause stress and anxiety levels to rise, which can further exacerbate mental health issues in children. This can result in a vicious cycle, where untreated dental problems cause mental health issues, which in turn make it more difficult for children to focus and manage their ADHD symptoms.
   
   
5. Chronic dental pain has been linked to sleep disturbances in children, which can have a significant impact on their ability to learn and process information. When children suffer from chronic dental pain, they may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to sleep deprivation. This can make it more difficult for them to concentrate, pay attention, and process information, which can further impact their ability to manage their ADHD symptoms.
   
   Lack of sleep can also affect brain function and development. During sleep, the brain processes and consolidates information, allowing children to learn and retain new information more effectively. When children suffer from sleep disturbances, it can impair their ability to learn and process information, making it more difficult for them to perform well in school and manage their ADHD symptoms.

The impact of untreated dental problems on a child’s overall mental health should not be underestimated. Chronic dental pain, sleep disturbances, and other associated symptoms can lead to increased stress and anxiety levels, which can negatively impact a child’s ability to manage their ADHD symptoms and perform well in school. Furthermore, the social stigma associated with poor oral health can contribute to low self-esteem, depression, and behavioral problems in children.

It’s important to prioritize your child’s oral health and work closely with your dentist and healthcare provider to prevent the development of dental problems and to ensure that any existing problems are treated promptly and effectively. By doing so, you can help your children maintain good oral hygiene, reduce stress and anxiety levels, and promote overall oral and mental well-being. 

By taking a comprehensive approach to care, patients of the Breakthrough ADHD clinic can help parents help their children manage their ADHD symptoms and lead healthy, successful lives.

We believe all parents deserve to know the root causes behind their child’s ADHD and have a customized plan for improving symptoms quickly.

We use cutting-edge, high-tech assessments to uncover what’s going on in a child’s brain and body that’s driving his ADHD symptoms. 

Since 2006, we’ve helped thousands of clients, especially ADHD children who are gifted or highly sensitive. Our clients see fast and lasting improvements in their behaviors, sleep, focus and mood. Request your FREE call today. Don’t waste another week feeling overwhelmed and discouraged.