According to the American Nutrition Association, 70 million Americans have digestive problems such as acid reflux (heartburn), constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. Every time you bite into food, you are reminded that your mouth is connected to your stomach. However, did you know that the health of your mouth can affect your gastrointestinal system? These factors can have an impact on your oral health. You can learn more about how a dentist may be able to help by reading on.
Digestive issues are influenced by oral health
Digestive
health depends on the ability to chew, and chewing depends on healthy teeth
and gums. When your teeth are misaligned or missing-or, when gum disease makes
chewing painful, may not be able to chew food properly. This can lead to
digestive issues.
In addition, gum disease indicates that
bacteria are likely traveling through your digestive tract with your food and
saliva. You may also experience digestive
imbalances as a result of this.
Digestion Disorders Affect Your Teeth and Gums
When it comes to digestion, what goes
down is not supposed to come up. However, acid in your stomach can reach your
mouth if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease or heartburn. When this
occurs, tooth enamel can be eroded by the acids.
Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Problems in the Mouth
The disease often manifests in the
mouth in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease
and ulcerative colitis. Children are especially vulnerable to this. Symptoms to
look for:
- Sores in the mouth
- An infection
- Gingivitis
- Swollen gums
Furthermore, some medications that
people take for IBD may cause gingivitis, dry mouth, or an inflamed tongue.
Consult your dentist if you have IBD. It is important to mention any
medications you take, as some may require precautions when you have dental work
done.
Additionally, the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention estimate that more than six million Americans suffer
from peptic ulcers. Medications used to treat ulcers may cause unpleasant side
effects, such as a black tongue, dry mouth, and changes to your sense of taste.
Again, you should speak with your dentist, who may be able to suggest ways to
combat the side effects.
Your
oral health can be affected by digestive disorders. Therefore, schedule an
appointment with your dentist to prevent or treat any problems with your teeth
and gums. If you have a gastrointestinal disorder, be sure to mention it.
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