subject: The Diseases That Dentists May See Before Your Doctor [print this page] When people think of dentists, they usually imagine health professionals whose sole scope of expertise lies within the realm of the mouth. Sure, they would be able to see if you're developing cavities or even oral cancer of some sort, but beyond that? They wouldn't have a clue. This actually is very far from the case. In fact, in many cases diseases can manifest in the mouth before they show symptoms in other parts of the body. This is but one more reason why maintaining a strict schedule of regular dental appointments is so important. Here are a few of the diseases your dental professional may notice before your doctor.
Heart Disease
This one comes as a shock to many people who don't see how heart disease could have any connection to oral health. Many studies have shown a link, though it isn't entirely known at this time precisely what that link denotes. What is known, however, is that there is a clear correlation between missing teeth, infected gums, an abundance of cavities, and serious heart conditions. Some dentists have begun recommending that patients with several oral health issues see their doctor for advanced heart screening.
Diabetes
There are several oral symptoms that tend to show themselves as a result of type 2 diabetes. Among these, bad breath, a receding gum line, and dry mouth are the most common. Many patients with diabetes have bleeding gums as well. There is another connection as well, of course. Dentists have long preached abstinence from (or at least personal limitations on) sugary drinks and snacks. These foods can have a deleterious effect on your teeth and they can have just as serious an effect on your waistline. Studies have shown a clear correlation between obesity and type 2 diabetes, so it is perhaps not surprising that there would be one between poor oral health and diabetes as well.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is defined as a loss of bone density. As you know, your teeth are among the most prominent bones in your body, so it is only natural that both your teeth and your jaw can be early indicators of impending disease. Dentists can often make an early diagnosis that something is wrong if they notice some loss of density along the jaw line. Of course, the other common symptoms of tooth loss and gum disease are also potential indicators of trouble.
Bulimia
If you're worried that your teenager may be heading down a dangerous road to bulimia, you might find answers in the dental chair. Dentists can see the signs of frequent vomiting by the toll the acid takes on the enamel.
by: Abigail Aaronson
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