Often our bodies try to tell us something. The mouth is no exception. If you notice something isn’t right in your mouth, something could be going wrong somewhere else. Here are four health issues that might show up as a dental symptom.
Anxiety: People are who stressed-out or angry often grind their teeth (bruxism). Although bruxism can be caused by dental fillings or a misalignment of the teeth from birth, there can also be behavioural causes.
Cancer: Mouth ulcers are usually caused by burns or bites and last just a few days, but if they don’t heal, they can be serious. Ulcers, lumps or other irregularities on your lips, gums, tongue and insides of your mouth could be signs of oral cancer. Look out for white/red white patches, permanent ulcers, a loss of feeling and hard points.
Bad gums have also been linked to other cancers. A recent study included evidence that showed that men with a history of gum disease may be more likely than other men to develop cancer. The study, which appeared in the prestigious medical journal Lancet Oncology, included close to 50,000 male health workers.
Compared to men with healthy gums, men with a history of gum disease were:
- 14% more likely to develop cancer overall
- 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer
- 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer
- 30% more likely to develop blood cancers
As an important note, the researches in this study said that this study did not prove cause and effect, and that more research is needed to review the findings.
Poor diet: Diet is a significant factor in tooth decay so, if you’re losing teeth or have a lot of caries that require fillings, consult a nutritionist about a balanced diet. You may be consuming too many sugary foods or other things that are bad for your teeth and your body.
Diabetes:
An increase in cavities and gum disease could also be a sign of high blood glucose. People with diabetes have an increased risk of oral complications, so it could be a sign that you at risk of diabetes.
When glucose levels in the blood aren’t controlled properly, people with diabetes may have more glucose in their saliva and very dry mouths. These conditions allow dental plaque to build up on teeth, which leads to tooth decay and cavities.
The best way to maintain a healthy mouth is to have regular contact with your dentist. If you are in Los Angeles, you can book an appointment here.