What Your Teeth Can Tell About Your Overall Health
Posted on 4/26/2021 by Watermark Dentistry
If you think taking care of your teeth isn't as important as taking care of your heart, kidneys, liver, etc., think again. While it might not seem like it, your teeth, gums, and the entire mouth play an integral role in your overall health and can tell you a lot about your body's condition.
Here are a few things your teeth can reveal about your health.
Vitamin Deficiencies
The appearance and health of your teeth, gums, and lips can indicate if you are suffering from any vitamin deficiencies. For instance, if your enamel is eroding away faster, besides other factors, one reason could be that you're deficient in vitamin A and D. Similarly, if you have a vitamin D deficiency, it can affect your oral health in the form of inflamed gums, or ulcers on the cheek.
Pregnancy Complications
Pregnancy does not only lead to various dental problems, such as pregnancy gingivitis, but poor dental health can also lead to adverse effects on the mother and baby. Pregnant women can be more susceptible to gum diseases, and bacteria from their mouth can reach the unborn baby in the womb, increasing chances of certain diseases.
Eating Disorders
Dentists are often the first to catch signs of any eating disorders amongst their patients. This is because eating disorders can have a significant effect on the teeth. For instance, people suffering from bulimia tend to have enamel erosion due to the constant exposure to acid from the stomach.
Mental Health Issues
Certain mental health conditions such as Alzheimer's Disease can reflect in a patient's oral health as they tend to forget to brush and floss, increasing chances of gum disease and tooth decay. Similarly, some people can develop bruxism due to stress and anxiety, leading to tooth damage.
Dental problems can be the cause as well as the effect of other health conditions. And the best way to diagnose and treat these problems is to seek help from a professional. So, contact Dr. June Daniel Hong at Watermark Dentistry right away for expert guidance and consultation.
Dental Blog | Dentist Normandy Park, WA | Watermark Dentistry Our team at Watermark Dentistry has provided this educational blog as a resource to our patients. Click here to learn about procedures, home care and more! Watermark Dentistry, 18537 First Avenue South, Suite A, Normandy Park, WA 98148-1888 ^ (206) 242-5808 ^ watermarkdentistry.com ^ 11/7/2024 ^ Page Terms:dentist Normandy Park WA ^