Read our lips: your mouth may be the source of all you have to say to the world, but it also speaks volumes about your own health. Tooth and gum disease can both lead to, and be caused by, other conditions throughout the body.

Here are some surprising revelations that your tooth and gum health can tell you about your body:

Flat or Ground Teeth Are A Sign That You’re Stressed

If you find that your teeth have become overly flat, it may be a sign that you have bruxism, or tooth grinding. This condition may be a sign of chronic stress, and is sometimes associated with temporo-mandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). This condition can become very painful, and is exacerbated by stress, according to WebMD. If you find yourself grinding your teeth, meet with your dentist to determine whether or not you’ve developed this condition. Also look at the stresses in your life that may be causing you to grind your teeth, and determine for ways to manage it or reduce it.

In addition to grinding your teeth, stress can cause you to be at a greater risk for developing other oral health problems. Caring.com indicates that more than 50 percent of people under stress do not brush or floss regularly, and it can lead to other stress-related habits, including smoking and drinking, both of which can damage the teeth.

Eroded or Crumbling Teeth Is An Indicator Of Bad Diet

If your teeth are showing chips, erosion or surface stains, it could be an indicator of a poor diet, especially one that’s high in sugar or soft drinks. If you’re starting to experience these symptoms, it may be time to re-evaluate your diet and decide whether you should be making healthier choices.