Singletons are ‘more likely to skip dentists appointments and have worse oral health’

IT turns out that being struck by Cupid's arrow can be good for your teeth.

According to University of Queensland researcher Grace Branjerdporn, finding a soul mate puts a smile on your face in more ways than one.

Researchers have studied the correlation between dental visits and oral hygiene and being in a relationship – and it turns out singletons visit the dentist less often.

Grace said: “We studied how the dynamics of our romantic relationships affect our oral health.

“We determined that those who tended to avoid emotional intimacy, or worried their partner would not be available to them in times of need, were more likely to have negative oral health outcomes.

“They were more likely to skip dental check-ups for preventative reasons, be overly self-conscious about how their teeth looked, and say their oral health was poorer.

“On the flipside, you could say having a love life where you trust the other person and have higher self-worth leads to better dental visiting habits, more confidence related to your teeth and appearance, and rating your teeth better.”

The study builds on previous research around adult attachment theory and the negative health impacts of attachment insecurity in adult relationships.

Grace added: “Those who try to emotionally distance themselves from their significant other may be reluctant to schedule regular preventative dental appointments as they have higher levels of self-reliance, distrust of others and avoid seeking support.”

“An emerging body of medical literature reveals links between insecure attachment and decreased healthcare-seeking.”