You’ve perhaps heard of the mind-body connection. The same could be true of the mouth-body connection such as certain medical conditions that can impact your oral health.
Age, lifestyle, and more can create a domino-effect in your overall health. Developing or ongoing general health issues can equally begin to show up in your oral health.
What general health conditions can impact your oral health?
Weak immunity
You might notice that the health of your mouth changes as you experience illness. Your immune system is designed and equipped to fight infection and protect your body from infections and illness.
A strong immune system also helps protect your oral health.
- Be aware of dental issues as you encounter a virus or an ongoing medical condition.
- Consult with your physician and dentist about immune compromising illnesses, infections, and diseases.
- Maintain consistent and effective preventive dental care (as possible) - especially if you’re ill or have been ill.
Iron deficiency or anemia
It’s common with iron deficiency to develop mouth sores. You might also notice issues with taste, a sore tongue, or throat and esophagus irritation.
As anemia develops you can also experience a compromised immune system. As earlier mentioned, this can set in motion an increase in medical and/or dental issues.
Diabetes
There is a potential you could develop oral health problems if you are diabetic. Again, awareness of your medical condition can help you stay equally aware of any abnormal dental conditions associated with diabetes.
For example, mouth infections can lead to blood-sugar fluctuations. It’s essential to have good oral health habits and stay in-tune with your mouth, teeth, and gum tissue.
Thyroid conditions
Oral health problems have been connected to thyroid conditions. Be aware of the following thyroid disorders:
- Hypothyroidism is common if you’re a senior adult. The disorder impacts the health of your gums and can potentially lead to periodontal (gum) disease.
- Hyperthyroidism is having an overactive thyroid gland. As with hypothyroidism, you could experience advanced gum disease.
- Thyroid cancer is often treated with radioactive iodine. While an effective treatment, oral health side effects can include an increase in saliva production and gum or mouth pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis
This painful medical condition can experience some relief when you maintain good oral health care. Research is ongoing relative to the pain-management provided by your oral care when dealing with rheumatoid arthritis.
Even so, it makes sense to experience the benefits of keeping your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy.
Acid reflux
Gastrointestinal issues can produce an increased amount of acid. Acids can erode and dissolve the enamel on your tooth surfaces - specifically your back teeth.
Alongside medical treatment for the condition, preventive dental care can help reduce the impact of acid reflux on your teeth.
- Rinse your mouth routinely to help remove acid from your teeth.
- Avoid brushing immediately after you rinse your mouth to prevent the toothbrush bristles from further disturbing your tooth enamel.
- Monitor your diet such as alcohol, caffeine, and foods and drinks high in acid content.
High blood pressure
You could experience gum issues as result of high blood pressure and the medications used to treat it. For example, you might notice your gum tissue changing and beginning to cover your teeth.
Consult with your dentist and physician if you notice this particular side effect in your oral health.
Your medical health and your oral health can (and should) have a mutually beneficial relationship. Communicate any changes to your medical condition or your oral health.
The following resources provide some useful insight into the importance your mouth-body connection:
Why Your Dentist is Interested in Your Medical History
Prioritize the Relationship Between Your Oral Health and Your Overall Health
Convenience and 24-7 access to dental care is possible via virtual dentistry. Consult with an online dentist on a convenient, private, and secure virtual dental appointment.
Schedule your next oral health check-up with a dentist online
The Dental.com team of dental professionals are trained to identify, diagnose, and treat any dental condition. From toothaches to second opinions - you’re covered!
- Access a 24 hour dentist now from your personal, private, and secure account.
- Select a reason for your visit using a brief questionnaire.
- Receive virtual dental care from a licensed dentist when you provide your issue details, any photos, and/or dental/health records.
Discover more about Dental.com on our How it Works page. Or Register Now.