The association between Oral Health and Depression among university students in Makkah city: A web-based survey study

Abstract

Background: Oral health encompasses a global health burden. Recently, a connection between oral health and depression was detected in many studies. Our study aimed to determine the association level between oral health and depression among university students in Makkah City. Methodology: A survey-based study was conducted via online social media channels utilizing two validated standardized tools: Oral Health Impact Profile-14 questionnaire and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9. Results: 534 students were included in this survey; the Mean age was 21.3 with (SD=2.03) — most students aged 20 years old, 21.91%. Most participants had good levels of oral health, 94.19%, while most of the participants, on the other hand, had mild levels of depression, 38.58%. A statistically significant association was found between those with mild levels of depression and those with good levels of oral health (P-value, ˃ 0.001). Conclusion: This study demonstrated an association between oral health and depression among university students in Makkah City. More research is advised to support the results.