When Dental Problems Point to a Health Issue

While few people enjoy going to the dentist, symptoms like a loose tooth or sore gums may point to more than just a problem with your teeth.

Staying on top of dental problems not only promotes oral health but can also alert you to signs of developing diseases in the body. And as with all things medical, early treatment offers the best chance of a favorable outcome. Here, a Midtown Miami FL dentist lists some of the more common, early signs of dental problems.

Changes in Tooth Surfaces and Enamel

Eating disorders and acid reflux problems can take a toll on teeth surfaces. Frequent vomiting can also lead to other dental health issues, including:

• Teeth sensitivity
• Swollen salivary glands
• Dry mouth
• Tooth enamel loss
• Dry, cracked lips

Bad Breath 

While the types of food and drinks you consume can contribute to bad breath, other conditions, such as gingivitis or gum disease may also be present. And too, it helps to keep in mind that certain other underlying health problems may also be present, such as:

• Diabetes
• Digestive problems
• Sinus infections
• Kidney or liver disease
• Lung infection

Bleeding and Sore Gums

Bleeding and sore gums indicate the tissues that make up the gums are likely inflamed. Gum disease may be the culprit, but other underlying issues might also be at work. Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, can weaken the immune system and make you more susceptible to gum inflammation. 

Other diabetes-related symptoms to watch for include:

• Loose teeth
• Fruity odor to the breath 
• Dry mouth
• Teeth that fall out unexpectedly

Mouth Sores, Patches, or Lumps

Mouth sores and patches can be as simple as a canker sore lesion. On the other hand, oral fungal infections and other more serious conditions, such as oral cancer, cause sores, too.

Other oral signs of a more serious health issue include:

• Discolored tissue in the mouth
• Lumps in the cheeks
• Bleeding sores that don’t seem to heal
• Rough patches
• Numbness 

Mouth and Jaw Pain

Mouth and jaw pain can develop from toothache, gum disease, or sinus problems. This type of pain may also be stress-related. And in some instances, jaw discomfort may also be heart attack-related. As with the other signs on this list, it’s best to get dental issues checked out no matter how inconsequential they seem. 

As many as nine out of every 10 diseases cause symptoms to develop in your mouth. And your dentist is in a prime position to spot signs of disease early on. If you experience any of the above symptoms, please don’t hesitate to contact your Midtown Miami FL dentist.