7 Health Problems Your Dentist Can Spot

Your mouth can reveal a lot about your health, from heart problems to bone disease to dementia.   “You’ve got a cavity.” No one likes to get bad news in the dentist’s chair. But good dental health is a reflection of good health overall and how well you take care of your teeth may reflect how well you take care of the rest of your body. That’s why Dr. Korinis can tell you a lot more about your health than simply the state of your mouth. An oral health exam may reveal problems with your bones, heart, or digestion because certain warning signs live inside your mouth.   And not only can oral health exams reveal certain health problems, they may also prevent them. So the next time you visit Dr. Korinis, he could clue you in to one of these seven health conditions. Dementia

This gradual loss of cognitive function is often signaled by confusion, loss of memory, disorganization and an unhealthy mouth. People with early dementia may show all the signs of poor oral hygiene.   In fact, poor oral hygiene may even be a risk factor for dementia, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society. The researchers speculate that this is because gum disease bacteria might get into the brain and cause inflammation. If you notice that a loved one is neglecting their oral health, skipping dental appointments, and having problems managing daily routines, talk to their doctor. Heart Problems

Did you know that adopting mouth-healthy habits may ultimately keep your heart healthy, too? Research has found a surprising number of links between the state of your dental health and your heart.   Inflamed gums and loose teeth can be warnings of heart disease. That’s because if you have a gum disease like periodontitis, the bacteria in your gums could travel to your heart and contribute to coronary artery disease. Bacteria may also increase your risk for heart disease by contributing to the formation of clots or further plaque build-up in your arteries that can interfere with blood flow to the heart.   And as the recent AHA study found, regular oral health exams will safeguard your smile and protect your ticker.   Diabetes

The most common dental health condition for diabetics? Gum disease.   Gum disease, bleeding gums, and loose teeth are all warning signs of diabetes. Diabetics also tend to have a slower healing time. Infections at your gum line can worsen the state of your diabetes and can contribute to the risk for heart disease and stroke, so it’s important to take steps to keep your mouth healthy (and your diabetes under control).   Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is characterized by the weakening of bones, and it's most common in post-menopausal women. But could Dr. Korinis be clued in to your thinning bones before you are?  Osteoporosis does not cause changes in the teeth, but it does cause changes in the bone that supports the teeth. This may show up as a receding gum line and loose teeth. If Dr. Korinis sees any oral signs of osteoporosis, let your medical doctor know right away.   Eating Disorders

By nature, people with anorexia or bulimia usually try to hide their condition but Dr. Korinis may be the first one to spot it.   That’s because eating disorders can cause poor nutrition, which can lead to oral conditions like bleeding gums and dry mouth. In addition, erosion on the insides of the front teeth may be a sign of forced vomiting in a young person with bulimia when stomach acid wears away at enamel and also makes teeth more sensitive.   Nighttime Reflux

Erosion of enamel from the insides of teeth, especially the upper back molars, is a clue to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD. Reflux of stomach juices can happen at night but you may not be aware of it until Dr. Korinis sees its effects during your oral health exam.   Reflux disease can cause erosion of the esophagus and may even lead to esophageal cancer, so let your doctor know if Dr. Korinis sees possible signs of reflux. Treatment can include elevating the head of your bed, not eating in the hours before bed, and taking acid blocking medications.   Dry Mouth

What’s the big deal about dry mouth? Saliva helps to wash away bacteria and debris that lead to cavities and gum disease.   And if you’re producing too little saliva, Dr. Korinis will know. Dry mouth may be caused by medications or it may be a sign of a disease such as diabetes or Parkinson's disease. The solution? Up your fluid intake, and Dr. Korinis may even suggest a saliva substitute.   If you have any questions or concerns about any of the above, please call us to schedule an appointment.

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