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.
Osteoporosis Affects The Jaw
Osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle, may be a disease that’s often linked with major bone fractures, including the hips. In truth, it affects all parts of the body, including the jaw bone, which can lead to tooth loss. If you’re experiencing tooth loss, especially if you are a postmenopausal female, or if you have a family history of osteoporosis, consult with your doctor about your risk factors for the disease and consider a bone density scan to rule out or diagnose the condition.
Yellow Teeth Are A Sign Of Unhealthy Habits
Our teeth naturally yellow with age. But for some, yellow teeth can be an indication of dental disease. They can also be the byproduct of a bad habit, such as smoking or excessive coffee intake. Teeth can also become discolored as a result of certain long-term medications. If you’ve noticed a distinct change in the color of your teeth, make an appointment with your dentist to get to the root of the problem.
Pale Gums Indicate Anemia
Healthy gums should be bright pink. However, in a person who develops anemia, a condition where the body doesn’t have enough blood cells or the blood cells don’t have sufficient hemoglobin, the gums and the inside of your mouth may become pale. The tongue can also swell and become smooth – a condition called glossitis. If you develop these symptoms, it’s important to make an appointment to see your doctor. That’s because patients with anemia aren’t getting enough oxygen to their organs. Only your doctor will be able to diagnose you with anemia, and determine what type of anemia you have, to prescribe an appropriate treatment.
Tooth Loss Is Linked With Kidney Disease
According to Web MD, adults who have missing teeth may be at a higher risk for chronic kidney disease than those who still have their teeth. While it’s not known how kidney disease is related to periodontal disease, taking care of teeth through regular brushing and flossing may reduce the risk of developing a chronic kidney disease.
Gum Disease May Be A Warning Sign For Heart Disease
As with kidney disease, studies have shown that there is a link between periodontal disease and heart disease. Specifically, endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart, can be caused by bacteria or germs from the mouth spreading through the bloodstream to the heart, according to Mayo Clinic. They add that some research has linked heart disease, clogged arteries, and risk for stroke to the inflammation and infections caused by oral bacteria.
Gum Disease Can Aggravate Diabetes
Diabetes has been shown to reduce the body’s ability to fight off infections. Conversely, gum disease may make it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels, putting diabetics at a greater risk for not only developing gum disease, but for having that gum disease aggravate their diabetes. Because of this, it is especially important for diabetics to develop excellent oral hygiene habits, brushing after every meal and flossing daily. Diabetics should also be sure to get regular dental checkups to address any issues that may be brewing in your mouth -- from cavities to gum disease.
Cracking or Crumbling Teeth May Signal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophogeal reflux disease, or GERD, is a condition marked by acid coming up the esophagus from the stomach. Better known as acid reflux, this condition can make teeth vulnerable to erosion by stomach acid, resulting in teeth with enamel that looks thin and almost translucent. Over time, the damage caused by GERD can cause teeth to crack or crumble. If your teeth are cracking, it’s important that you see a dentist right away so that you can avoid further complications. If you have heartburn, dry mouth, or have been diagnosed with GERD, mention this to your dentist.
Caution: In young adults, cracking or chipped teeth may be a sign of GERD. However, it is also one of the characteristic signs of a bulimia, an eating disorder marked by the sufferer causing him or herself to vomit after eating. If your child has begun to show signs of enamel wear or has developed chips in his or her teeth, especially in combination with weight loss or a marked change in behaviors around meal time (getting up to use the rest room during or immediately following meals), make an appointment with your family physician to address your concerns. Eating disorders can be deadly if left untreated.
What Can I Do?
While underlying medical conditions can show their signs in your mouth, in most cases, poor oral health can have a detrimental effect on the rest of your body. If you suspect that an underlying condition is damaging your teeth or gums, see your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns, confirm or rule out a diagnosis, and develop a treatment plan for that condition.
To protect your oral health, maintain good oral hygiene practices. You should:
- Brush your teeth after every meal, or at least three times a day.
- Floss your teeth daily.
- Schedule dental checkups and cleanings every six months, or every three months if you are older or more prone to periodontal disease.
- Limit your intake of sugary foods and sodas that can erode the enamel and encourage the growth of oral bacteria
- Replace your toothbrush every three months.
- If you smoke, quit.
These basic steps should help you maintain good oral health, but remember, if you suspect a cavity or other tooth problem, don’t delay in getting to your dentist. The longer your wait, the greater your risk becomes for complications, including abscesses, which can lead to more serious health problems.