All of the systems in the human body are intricately connected. A stubbed toe can ruin your entire day, a neck massage may be able to relieve a headache, and what you put on your skin can affect your internal systems. Your teeth are also a big part of the amazing network that is the human body. Just by performing a basic examination, your dentist in Mount Pleasant can spot signs of health problems that go beyond your oral hygiene habits.
Stress and Anxiety
Having a rough time at work lately? A high-stress lifestyle contributes to a host of other health problems, including bruxism (teeth grinding). When you habitually grind your teeth, you can cause the chewing surfaces to flatten out and become shorter. Bruxism can also cause headaches and jaw problems.
If your dentist spots this problem, they’ll probably recommend that you use a custom mouth guard at night. You may sleep better, and your smile will be less likely to suffer damage your teeth grinding.
Dietary Problems
Everyone indulges in unhealthy foods and drinks once in a while, but if your regular routine involves goodies that aren’t good for you, your dentist will be able to tell. Your teeth may become discolored if you frequently drink coffee or tea or consume a lot of dark or acidic foods, like berries or marinara sauce.
Of course, it’s also easy for your dentist to tell if you’ve been having too much sugar. The sweet stuff is a major contributor to tooth decay and cavities. However, if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing, and if you’re genetically blessed with strong teeth, it will be tougher for your dentist to know how much you love candy.
Diabetes
There is a strong link between diabetes and oral health. If your dentist spots the signs of gingivitis in your mouth, they’ll probably ask you questions to determine the cause. If poor hygiene habits aren’t to blame, it’s possible that you have diabetes. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to dry mouth and a weakened immune system, factors that contribute to gum disease.
The connection between gum problems and diabetes goes both ways. If you have diabetes and develop gum disease, your blood sugar levels may become more difficult to control.
Digestive Problems
If you have gastroesophageal reflex disease (GERD), otherwise known as acid reflux disease, the acids along your digestive tract and stomach may not stay in their proper place. You may vomit frequently, and the acids in the vomit can cause your teeth to erode or crack. If your dentist spots this problem, they might suggest that you visit your physician to get treatment for your stomach issues.
Your eyes might be a window into your soul, but your teeth are a window into the rest of your body. They can reveal a lot about your overall health!
About the Dentist
Dr. Virginia Gregory and the rest of her team are proud to provide dental services to folks in the Mount Pleasant area. They provide preventive care as well as restorative and cosmetic procedures. If you have health problems that are affecting your oral health, or you just have questions about how to achieve your best possible smile, contact our office at 843-884-8884.