Mental health vulnerabilities and periodontal disease in Korean adults: Implications for public health policy

Objective: To investigate the associations between mental health vulnerabilities and periodontal disease among Korean adults using nationally representative data. Basic research design: We analyzed data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) (2010–2017). Logistic regression models adjusted for sociodemographic, behavioral, and oral health covariates were used to assess the associations between mental health factors (perceived stress, depression, suicidal ideation, and mental health counseling) and periodontal disease. Participants: A total of 11,019 adults aged ≥40 years who participated in the KNHANES (2010–2017). Main outcome measures: Associations between mental health factors (perceived stress, depression, suicidal ideation, and mental health counseling) and periodontal disease. Results: High perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation were independently associated with higher odds of periodontal disease. In contrast, a history of mental health counseling was not significantly associated with periodontal disease. Conclusion: Mental health vulnerabilities were associated with periodontal disease. Although a causal relationship and temporal sequence could not be determined, the findings highlight the need for integrated public health strategies that link dental care with mental health screening and community support systems.