Education Hub
DENTAL PATIENT EDUCATION
On our Dental Education Hub, we are dedicated to providing valuable and up-to-date information to empower and educate patients about their oral health. Our mission is to help you achieve a bright and healthy smile while fostering a better understanding of dental care.
Purpose
We believe that knowledge is key to maintaining optimal oral hygiene. Every month, we curate and share practical dental insight and tips that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine. We hope this helps guide you towards making informed decisions for your dental well-being.
OCTOBER
MEDICAL CONDITIONS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO POOR ORAL HEALTH
DURING A ROUTINE EXAMINATION, A DENTIST CAN OFTEN DETECT THE FIRST SIGNS OF UNDERLYING MEDICAL CONDITIONS. THE FOLLOWING DISEASES OR ILLNESSES CAN BE TRIGGERS FOR POOR ORAL HEALTH.
Diabetes
Diabetes that is not well controlled can lead to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease. This can destroy the bone and supporting tissues around the teeth resulting in lost teeth, bad breath and pain. Soft tissue ulcers and other infections can be seen due to the reduced response to infections associated with this disease.
high blood pressure
Hypertension (high blood pressure) raises the risk of gum disease. This medical condition can exhibit symptoms of red and bleeding gums. Medications for hypertension can lead to dry mouth which can lead to extensive tooth decay.
HIV
Your mouth may show the signs of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) before you have symptoms elsewhere in the body. A yeast infection in your mouth, called thrush, can be an early sign of HIV. It appears as a white rash on the tongue, inner cheeks or anywhere in the mouth, it can also cause gum disease, mouth sores or herpes.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis typically affects older men and women where the bones become thin and fragile. A dentist may suspect this disease if an older individual has loose teeth or dentures. This is a strong sign of weakened bones in the rest of the body.
acid reflux, heartburn
Acid reflux is the eruption of stomach acid that can reach the mouth. It is very destructive and causes erosion (destruction of the enamel of a tooth) which in turn will result in very sensitive teeth when exposed to cold, heat and sweets. The teeth are susceptible to decay because of the loss of enamel.
Pregnancy
The hormonal changes in pregnant women can abnormally inflame the gums in a condition called “Pregnancy gingivitis”. This is demonstrated by red, puffy gums that can almost cover the entire tooth surface.
autoimmune diseases
This category of medical conditions describes an imbalance in the immune system. This can cause the natural body defense mechanism to attack normal bodily functions rather than provide protection against invading organisms or substances. There are 3 such diseases listed below.
A
Sjögren's syndrome
This autoimmune disorder causes dry eyes and dry mouth. People with Sjogen’s may have a hard time chewing certain foods and brushing can be very uncomfortable. The lack of saliva leads to cavities and possible fungi infections in the mouth.
B
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Researchers believe that bacteria responsible in dental disease may prompt rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, pain and stiffness can cause jaw pain and make it harder to open and close the mouth.
C
Lupus
Patients with lupus are more likely to struggle with severe gum disease as well as chronic ulcers and lesions on the lips, tongue and mouth.
WE ARE AVAILABLE AT SPECTRUM HEALTH SREVICES, INC. TO ASSESS AND TREAT YOUR DENTAL NEEDS.
THE ORAL HEALTH ISSUES DESCRIBED ABOVE CAN BE MANAGED AND EVEN ELIMINATED BY GOOD ORAL HEALTH PRACTICES AND REGULAR VISITS TO THE DENTIST.