Many people aren’t aware that their checkup and cleaning with their dentist in Irving isn’t just meant to help keep their mouths healthy—it’s also an effort to look after their overall wellbeing. Your dentist is able to identify other medical conditions besides cavities and gum disease while they’re in your mouth. Read on to learn about four non-dental medications dentists regularly discover.
Diabetes
When diabetes is left undiagnosed, it can impact other parts of your body, including your mouth. Dentists are able to diagnose this issue due to the oral symptoms it creates, such as dry mouth, loose teeth, and dry and receding gums. Because this medical condition impacts your immune system, it also puts you at a greater risk of developing oral health problems like gum disease. These early warning signs of uncontrolled diabetes can easily tip your dentist off so they can encourage you to visit your primary care doctor and have the necessary tests completed.
Oral Cancer
Patients often aren’t aware that during their checkup at their semi-annual appointment, their dentist conducts a thorough and brief oral cancer screening. This involves them examining your lips, mouth, throat, and oral tissues in search of any abnormalities. The most common sign of oral cancer includes a red and white patch in the mouth, oral sores that haven’t healed within two weeks, mouth pain, ear pain, or loose teeth. Their goal is to provide you with an early diagnosis that increases your chances of having a successful treatment.
HIV/AIDS
Just like diabetes, HIV/AIDS can have a significant impact on your immune system and cause symptoms to occur in the mouth. HIV is the virus itself that can initially cause flu-like symptoms such as a sore throat. AIDS is the late stage of the virus, which can weaken the immune system and make you more susceptible to developing gum disease. If your dentist notices that your mouth is having an especially difficult time fighting off the bacteria that causes cavities and gum disease, they can direct you towards a medical professional to help diagnose and treat the issue.
Poor Nutrition
Some people may not consider poor nutrition as a medical condition, but when it’s left untreated, it can certainly cause a variety of issues for your overall wellness. Manufactured and processed foods often contain high amounts of sugars and carbohydrates. An excessive amount of these can cause heart problems, blood sugar issues, and other dangerous medical conditions. They are also a primary culprit of the formation of oral health problems such as cavities. This is because sugars and carbohydrates are harmful oral bacteria’s favorite food to feed off of. If your dentist notices that despite brushing and flossing daily, you just can’t seem to stop oral health problems from developing, they may suggest implementing a more nutritious diet.
Many people put off their semi-annual checkups and cleanings because they don’t consider visiting their dentist a necessity. However, because many medical condition first begin to show signs in the mouth, it’s vital to have your teeth and gums examined by a professional regularly. You never know, they could end up saving your life!
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji is a highly skilled dentist with over a decade of experience under his belt. He regularly completes advanced courses to sharpen his skills in specialty topics, such as pediatrics, orthodontics, and sedation. He is passionate about helping his patients look after their wellbeing by providing thorough preventive dental care as well. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur’s website or call 972-546-4114.