Rooting Within Health
Rooting Within Health explores the powerful connections between oral health and overall systemic wellness, while addressing critical issues in the dental industry that often go unspoken. Hosted by Kimberly W. Williamson, RDH, CIHC, RYT, this podcast goes beyond the surface to examine how oral health impacts our entire body, mind, and quality of life.
Through a hybrid approach of solo episodes and conversations with healthcare professionals, wellness experts, and individuals navigating their own health journeys, we'll dive into topics that matter. From oral-systemic health connections, workplace wellness and culture in healthcare settings, to behavior modifications for sustainable health to the urgent need for advocacy and reform within the dental industry - no topic is off limits.
Whether you're a dental professional seeking community and validation, a healthcare worker facing workplace challenges, or someone interested in holistic approaches to health, this podcast creates space for honest conversations and meaningful change. We're here to educate, empower, and build community around the issues that matter most - because true health starts from within, and change begins when we're willing to speak up.
Rooting Within Health
Episode 7: When Getting Out of Bed is Hard: The Connection Between Mental Health and Oral Health
January is Mental Wellness Month — and very few in dentistry are talking about the connection between mental health and oral health.
In this episode, Kimberly Williamson explores why depression makes brushing feel impossible, how psychiatric medications affect your mouth, the shame spiral that keeps people from seeking care, and what dental offices are getting wrong.
For patients, this episode validates what you may have been experiencing: canceled appointments, skipped brushing, and the fear of being judged for letting things go. There's real science behind why a two-minute task can feel like climbing a mountain — and why the medications helping your mental health might be harming your teeth.
For clinicians, this is a call to change how we approach patient care. We're trained to educate and instruct — but what if the patient in our chair isn't "non-compliant"? What if they're barely surviving?
Kimberly also shares why she believes dental hygienists should be trained as health coaches, and offers gentle, judgment-free guidance for anyone struggling to care for themselves right now.
If getting out of bed is hard — this episode is for you.
You are not lazy. Your struggle is valid. And you deserve compassion.
Resources:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357
- psychologytoday.com (therapist finder)
Disclaimer: Kimberly Williamson is a registered dental hygienist and health coach, not a mental health professional. This episode is NOT a substitute for professional medical or psychological care. If you're in crisis, please reach out to a licensed provider or call 988.
Music and episodes written and produced by Kimberly Williamson.