Dental Consultation May Reveal Underlying Digestive Issues
A visit to the dentist can uncover more than just cavities and gum issues, as they may indicate underlying health conditions like acid reflux and frequent consumption of acidic foods.
According to dentist Kari Carter-Cherelus, speaking to HuffPost, the teeth can provide a revealing glimpse into a person's health. "Patients with acid reflux exhibit signs of tooth erosion," she explains. The back surface of the teeth can exhibit erosion due to acid, exposing the softer tooth layers.
Frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks can also leave telltale signs on teeth, making them appear smooth and thinner than normal. This erosion causes increased dental sensitivity as the protective enamel layer wears down.
Dentists can diagnose these conditions by examining teeth and the oral cavity for signs of enamel erosion and other symptoms. A dentist might also ask about symptoms like heartburn, sour taste, or difficulty swallowing to help identify acid reflux.
Moreover, acid reflux can be linked to conditions like bruxism (teeth grinding), as the disrupted sleep associated with GERD symptoms may aggravate or trigger bruxism, increasing the risk of tooth wear and sensitivity.
Regular dental visits are crucial for early detection and management of these issues. By closely examining the teeth, dentists can help patients maintain optimal oral health and potentially prevent more serious complications.
What about medical-conditions like acid reflux, and its link to digestive-health, as a dentist might notice signs of enamel erosion on your teeth, which could indicate this condition? In addition, dentists may diagnose further health-and-wellness issues, such as bruxism, due to the correlation between disrupted sleep and acid reflux symptoms.
