Your dentist is a part of your medical team to help you maintain good health and wellbeing. As such, they may be able to predict certain medical conditions.
This is because your teeth, gums, and other oral structures affect the rest of your body. And likewise, other systems within the body may affect your oral health. For example, people with diabetes are more likely to experience gum disease.
This is just one of many examples of how the systems within your body interact.
Here’s what else you need to know.
1. Diabetes
People who have diabetes often have a low resistance against infection. As such, they may develop gingivitis and periodontitis.
Patients often develop gingivitis when they neglect their oral hygiene. This means that they’re not brushing or flossing as often as they should. Once plaque builds up, it can irritate the gums and cause inflammation.
Gum inflammation is often the first warning sign of gingivitis. But it could also be a hidden symptom of undiagnosed diabetes. Other symptoms include bleeding gums, bad breath, oral fungal infections, and loose teeth.
When we accept new patients, we always have them fill out a health history form. That way, we’re able to spot risk factors before they have a chance to affect your dental health.Related:
Reverse Gingivitis With These 3 Simple Steps →
2. Oral Cancer
include hard lumps or bleeding sores in the mouth. A bite that has shifted out of alignment may also be a sign of oral cancer.
If you have any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. No one likes to think that they might have cancer. But it’s important to bring up any concerns with your dentist. That way, they can rule out oral cancer or other conditions.
3. Heart Disease
Did you know that inflamed gums and gum disease can be warning ?
Periodontitis is a serious gum infection. As such, bacteria from your gums may be able to enter the bloodstream and flow into your heart.
If you already have coronary artery disease, dental plaque may worsen your condition. People with heart disease are also more likely to have loose teeth.
Any reputable dentist will have your medical history on file. That way, they can look for the signs of heart disease in your teeth and gums. Taking care of your oral health may also prevent further cardiovascular problems.
4. Osteoporosis
When we get older, it’s not uncommon for bones to weaken and become more susceptible to breakage. But did you also know that osteoporosis can affect your oral health?
Patients with osteoporosis tend to have loose teeth and receding gum lines. This is often caused by and around the teeth.
Related: How to Keep Your Teeth Strong as You Age →
5. Eating Disorders
People with eating disorders often keep their struggles a secret from their
Unfortunately, this often means that they don’t get the help they need on the path to recovery.
One sign of an eating disorder is worn tooth enamel on the insides of the front teeth. Other symptoms include sensitive teeth, bleeding gums, and dry mouth.
If you have an eating disorder, please know that recovery is possible. If you’re nervous about seeking out help, the National Eating Disorders Association has a helpline that you can contact via phone call, web chat, or text. We also recommend reaching out to your family physician to help you plan out your next steps.
Request an Appointment With Gasior Family Dental
Our family dentists in Northville, MI, would be more than happy to help you maintain a healthy smile. That’s why they offer a range of dental services for patients of all ages.
To request an appointment, please call Gasior Family Dental at (248) 348-7997. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our office will reach out to you soon.
