Dental Health and Oral Hygiene Behaviors among Adults with Depression Symptoms in Saudi Arabia

Background: Oral diseases remain among the most common non-communicable conditions worldwide, imposing a significant public health and economic burden. Emerging evidence suggests an association between depressive symptoms and adverse oral health outcomes. However, data from Saudi Arabia are limited. Objectives: The study aims to assess the relationship between depression symptoms and oral health outcomes among adults in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between June and August 2020, with 655 adult participants. Data included sociodemographics, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 to screen for depressive symptoms, and self-reported oral health outcomes. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed using SAS (SAS OnDemand for Academics). Results: Of 655 participants, 146 (22.3%) reported depression symptoms. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables and chronic disease indicators (CDIs), depressive symptoms were significantly associated with fair/poor oral health (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.97 [1.97–4.48]), oral aches (aOR = 2.08 [1.39–3.12]), dental caries (aOR = 1.75 [1.17–2.61]), and periodontal disease (aOR = 1.82 [1.20–2.76]) compared with those with no depression (P < 0.05). Participants with depressive symptoms were more likely to feel embarrassed about their oral health (aOR = 3.62 [2.41–5.46]) and to report difficulty at work or school (aOR = 3.06 [1.63–5.72]). Limited access to dental care within the past year was also significantly associated with depressive symptoms (aOR = 1.99 [0.34–2.96]; P < 0.05). Conclusion: Adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and CDIs, depression symptoms are associated with poor/fair oral health, mouthache, and dental caries. These findings highlight the need for integrated oral and mental health interventions and improved access to preventive dental services.