New study finds patients with ADHD are at a greater risk for poor oral health

Linking ADHD and poor oral health

A recent report by the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health discovered that adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to have poor oral health than those without ADHD. According to the study, 35.5% of participants with ADHD rated their oral health as either fair or poor, with only 24.9% of neurotypical respondents giving the same rating. Those with ADHD were also more embarrassed about the state of their oral health compared to those without (48.4% vs. 29.6%).¹

Additionally, 40.4% of participants with ADHD reported not visiting a dentist in the past year (31.9% for adults without ADHD) and 13% with ADHD reported visiting an emergency clinic for dental care (2.3% for neurotypical adults).¹

Discrimination deterring patients with ADHD

Eschewing regular dental care may be a result of discrimination in the oral health care setting; the same study also found that 11.7% reported feeling discriminated against in a dental setting as well as an increased level of dental anxiety (7% for adults without ADHD).¹

According to Leslie Carver, chief operating officer at CareQuest Institute, there is a pressing need to work toward a more accessible and equitable system when it comes to dental care. She said: "While not all adults with ADHD have poor oral health, it is important for oral health professionals to be aware of the potential oral health challenges associated with ADHD and consult with their patients to help them achieve optimal oral health."

Oral-systemic Health

Alleviating dry mouth symptoms with coconut oil pulling

Amanda Hale, BS, RDH

Oral health and ADHD medications

Those with ADHD are also at a higher risk for caries, periodontal disease, and bruxism.² Not only that, but many common ADHD medications are known to cause dry mouth (stimulants like Adderall, Ritalin, or Concerta).³ Saliva is important in the prevention of tooth decay because it washes away sugar and food particles. It also neutralizes bacteria, making it less harmful. Not having enough saliva can also lead to difficulty digesting, tasting, or chewing food.⁴

Some ways dental health-care providers can help patients with ADHD feel more comfortable in the practice is by using clear and simple communication techniques, listening to and validating a patient's concerns and experiences, collaborating with caregivers, and adapting the appointment to help patients feel more in control when possible.

Overall, making sure adults with ADHD feel safe in an oral health setting helps ensure they receive the care they need. By addressing these disparities, the dental care system can better support the unique needs of patients with ADHD.

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