Oral Symptoms of Health Conditions

Visiting the dentist every six months is a great way to have clean and healthy teeth. This visit has more than one purpose as it also decreases your risk of other ailments such as periodontal disease and cavities. Your dentist is also trained to spot the signs of non-dental diseases that could be life-threatening. 

 

When your dentist assesses your overall health, it becomes easy for them to spot the signs of several other diseases. Here’s what they might find. 

 

 

In the United States alone, more than 25 million people are suffering from the effects of diabetes. Diabetes reduces your resistance to other infections which put your gums at risk. Those with diabetes also tend to suffer from higher instances of fungal infections and bad breath. 

 

 

Oral cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in society. Symptoms include lumps, bleeding sores, hard sports or changes in how the teeth fit. 

 

It isn’t easy to diagnose oral cancer yourself, so the routine exams are critical. Dentists feel the mouth for lumps or any other irregular bumps in the cheeks, head, neck and oral cavity. They also have a close-up view of the soft tissues of your mouth which can show discolored tissues or sores.

 

 

Anorexia and bulimia rob the body of needed minerals and vitamins. Without the right nutrition, gums lose their pink color and start to bleed. When vomiting is part of the disorder, erosion of the tooth enamel also becomes a problem. That’s because of the acid contact from the stomach. It can also lead to dry mouth, swollen glands and sensitive teeth.

 

It’s important to remember that diseases don’t just affect your body’s health but also your dental health. Your bi-annual dental exams are a critical component of monitoring your health. Make sure that you inform your family dentist in Muncie, IN about any medical condition you are experiencing or medicine you are taking. It’s also important that you discuss your medical history with your dentist. This gives them the best chance of helping you in the future. Remember, your overall health and dental health go hand in hand.