Potential Causal Association between Depression and Oral Diseases: A Mendelian Randomization Study

Area of Science:

• Oral Health
• Mental Health
• Genetics

Background:

• Oral diseases are prevalent globally, impacting quality of life and incurring economic costs.
• Emerging research indicates a significant connection between depression and the development of oral conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causal relationship between depression and the risk of various oral diseases using a robust genetic approach.
• To provide evidence for the integration of mental health considerations into oral healthcare strategies.

Main Methods:

• Employed two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess the association between depression and 17 oral diseases.
• Utilized inverse variance-weighted, weighted median, and MR-Egger methods for MR analysis.
• Conducted sensitivity analyses including Cochran's Q test and MR-Egger intercept test to ensure result validity.

Main Results:

• Genetic susceptibility to depression was causally linked to an increased risk of mouth ulcers, toothache, loose teeth, bleeding gums, painful gums, chronic periodontitis, chronic tonsil and adenoid diseases, peritonsillar abscess, and excessive tooth attrition.
• No causal relationship was found between depression and other assessed oral diseases.
• Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness and reliability of the observed associations.

Conclusions:

• Confirmed a causal relationship between depression and specific oral diseases, offering a new perspective on prevention and treatment.
• Highlights the importance of addressing depression in oral health management and suggests integrating depression control into routine clinical practice for enhanced oral disease treatment effectiveness.