Going to the dentist every 6 months for cleaning and regular check-up is advisable to prevent the accumulation of bacteria-laden dental calculus. Sally Cram, a consumer advisor for American Dental Association, states that oral hygiene reflects the overall health of a person.
It is important to be aware of the fact that there are a number of disease that cause some specific symptoms within the oral cavity. As cited from Health.com, here are some diseases that are closely linked to oral health.
- Diabetes
Diabetic patients have a distinct fruity breath aroma, which results from the presence of high levels of ketones in blood. They also are prone to periodontal disease, including gum inflammation, bone destruction, and tooth mobility.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a digestive disorder that causes a return (reflux) of the stomach’s contents, including harmful stomach acid, back up into the esophagus. Besides causing indigestion and heartburn, GERD also leads to foul mouth odor, dry mouth, ulcers, and erosion of teeth’s enamel and dentin layer.
- Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis affects teeth-supporting alveolar bone. When one suffers from tooth mobility and gingival recession with no obvious etiology and despite having good oral hygiene, osteoporosis might just be the cause.
- HIV/AIDS
People suffering from HIV/AIDS usually suffer from a lot of mouth ulcers, dry mouth, and gum inflammation. A white, hairy tongue called hairy leukoplakia may also indicate HIV/AIDS.
- Sjogren’s Syndrome
Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder characterized by dry eyes and dry mouth. It affects the work of salivary glands, causing dry mouth and difficulty in speaking and swallowing.
Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from gettyimages.com
Source(s):
- 9 Things Your Dentist Can Tell About Your Health By Looking in Your Mouth (2018). http://www.health.com/oral-health/health-conditions-dentist, June 26, 2018.
- 5 Penyakit yang Bisa DIdeteksi dari Gigi dan Mulut Anda (2017). https://www.msn.com/id-id/kesehatan/healthyteeth/5-penyakit-yang-bisa-dideteksi-dari-gigi-dan-mulut-anda/ar-BBG27Zc, June 26, 2018.