People with chronic digestive diseases can tell you such diseases are often difficult to treat. That’s because the intestines, the most complex part of your digestive tract, sit in the middle of that system, making it all the harder to treat. But there’s an early warning system. Your mouth, the gateway to the digestive process, can signal problems before the chronic disease takes hold. While poor health has an impact on oral health, and vice-versa, there are a handful of diseases of the digestive tract that have adverse effects on your teeth and gums.
Diseases of the digestive tract that have adverse effects on your teeth and gums
- Celiac disease, an autoimmune illness triggered by gluten, can cause mouth ulcers, and it can disrupt tooth development. Oral symptoms include discolored or poorly enameled teeth. The resulting rough, brown teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay.
- Type 2 diabetes not only affects blood sugar regulation, but it also changes the microbes in your digestive tract. People with Type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of gum disease. Inflammation and bleeding gums are early signs.
- Heartburn, acid reflux, or more officially, gastroesophageal reflux disease can allow stomach acids in the mouth, and these acids can erode tooth enamel. Tell your dentist if you have reflux, she may recommend fluoride or an oral rinse to strengthen your tooth enamel.
- Inflammatory bowel disease, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can first appear as sores and infections or bleeding, swollen gums. Some prescriptions used to treat Crohn’s disease may cause gingivitis (gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup), or inflammation of the tongue.
- Treatment for peptic ulcers, sores in the stomach lining, lower esophagus, or small intestine, can also affect your dental health. Treatment side effects can include dry mouth, black tongue, or even a change in how your food tastes.
Dental issues, such as gum disease or discolored teeth, don’t always signal a chronic illness.
Mario Garita MP Dental Experience Clinic
Dental issues, such as gum disease or discolored teeth, don’t always signal a chronic illness. But they are a sign that the health of your teeth, gums, and soft tissues are in jeopardy. Regular dental check-ups can go a long way to catch problems before they become a serious issue. Good oral hygiene is another important tool in ensuring optimal dental health. If you do have a gastrointestinal disease, be sure to discuss your condition and its treatment with us when you call to schedule your appointment at Mario Garita MP Dental Experience Clinic. We will customize your dental care to maximize prevention and reduce the effects on your dental health.