LONDON – HEALTH – Whether your mouth seems to be perfectly healthy, or you’re desperately seeking out the best emergency dentist London has to offer, there is plenty you need to consider about your oral health. After all, our mouths are an important part of our body. Our teeth break down food for us to swallow and digest, we drink much-needed water, and we speak and communicate with other humans through them too. So when something goes wrong, it’s time to start paying attention. Here, we’re exploring just what our oral health can tell us about our bodies.
Sudden Cavities
If you find that you’re suddenly suffering from multiple cavities without any drastic changes in your diet or any new medications, it could be a sign that your body is struggling to process glucose. If this is the case, you could be suffering from diabetes. Sugar build up through raised glucose levels could increase cavity-causing bacterial growth even if you’ve never had a cavity before in your life. If you find that you’re suddenly suffering from increased sensitivity or pain, it’s time to visit the dentist and your doctor.
If Your Teeth Are ‘Wearing Away’
If your teeth are wearing away, it could be a symptom of a number of issues. Of course, bad oral hygiene is the main concern, however, GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is another possible explanation. Similarly, if you find yourself stressed in your everyday life, you could even be grinding your teeth in your sleep, which leads to increased sensitivity and pain. If you’re noticing your teeth wearing away, visit your dentist, who may be able to direct you to your GP or explain the issue themselves.
Bleeding Gums
Gingivitis is a common cause of bleeding gums – second only to brushing too hard! – but left untreated this could lead to periodontitis. Receding gums that bleed while you’re brushing must be looked at, as periodontitis has been thought to have links to heart disease. Make an appointment with your dentist, and ease up on the brushing – you don’t need to be as fierce as you might believe!
White Spots
If you have white spots or patches on your tongue or on your gums, this could be a sign of oral thrush. Any overgrowth of the Candida yeast is the main cause of this issue, and while it’s common in people with diabetes, dry mouth or a limited immune system, it’s not overly common in general. However, despite this, it’s important that you ensure you get checked out by a dentist or doctor to prevent this becoming painful. Your GP may be able to prescribe an antifungal medication if it turns out that you are suffering from this issue.
Our oral health is undeniably important. Not only do we need to take good care of our mouths, but they can even go on to tell us more about the state of the rest of our bodies. Regardless, caring for each and every part of us incredibly important, and with regular trips to the dentist, you could even catch an issue before it becomes serious. What is your mouth telling you?