One of the most important parts of achieving and maintaining good oral health is making sure to visit your general dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and an exam. It may surprise you to learn that dental issues aren’t the only things that your dentist can detect. There are also a few non-dental medical issues that dentists can spot at these appointments. This is because many disorders and diseases can have an impact on the teeth and mouth.
Non-Dental Medical Issues Detected By Dentists
Below are a few of the medical problems your dentist may be able to detect during your cleaning and checkup:
- Diabetes – Dental symptoms related to diabetes include gum recessions, bleeding of the gums, dry mouth, and even the loosening of the teeth. If you have any of these symptoms, your dentist may suggest that you undergo a simple blood glucose test to see if you have diabetes.
- Stress – The most common sign of stress during a dental visit is the symptoms of bruxism. Bruxism is the clenching and grinding of teeth during the night, usually as a result of extreme stress. A night guard will be used to lessen the damage caused by bruxism.
- Osteoporosis – Osteoporosis is the weakening of the bones in the body, which includes the teeth. Signs of osteoporosis include loose teeth and a receding gum line. Post-menopausal women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
- Eating Disorders – Your dentist is likely to spot the signs of your eating disorder, especially bulimia. Malnutrition is a sign, as well as the weakening of the tooth enamel due to overexposure of stomach acid. Other symptoms include dry mouth, bleeding gums, and enamel erosion on the inside of the front teeth.
To make an appointment for a regular dental cleaning and exam, please contact your general dentist today. If you have concerns about your periodontal health or questions regarding dental implants, please make an appointment here at Littleton Implants & Periodontics located in Littleton, Colorado.