On our website we have an informative article about medical conditions that can affect your teeth and that your dentist might be able to help with. For more information on conditions like diabetes, oral cancer, bulimia and anorexia nervosa you should consult Part 1. In this blog post we’ll take a look at some other medical issues that can have an impact on your oral health.
Temporomandibular Disorder
The temporomandibular is a name for the joints and muscles around the jaw that let us chew, swallow, and speak. When there issues with this area it may be indicative of temporomandibular disorder or TMD. Symptoms include tender or saw jaw muscles, issues opening and closing your mouth, headaches, or clicking when you chew or yawn. Your dentist can help by examining you and treating your TMD possibly with a specially designed appliance custom made for you.
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.
Anemia
Anemia is a disorder in which your red blood cells don’t contain enough of the iron-rich protein hemoglobin or less of them are produced than is normal. This means your body may not get the oxygen it needs through the bloodstream which could result in serious medical issues including heart failure. It has oral effects as well including a higher risk of periodontitis, pale mouth tissue, or an inflammation of the tongue. If you have anemia it is vital to let your dentist know since some forms could carry higher risk of infection and your dentist may need to prescribe antibiotics (in severe cases) before performing any procedures to minimize that risk.
Thyroid Problems
Your thyroid produces and regulates many very important hormones in the body and conditions that affect it can disrupt the functionality of organs and various bodily systems. In terms of oral care thyroid problems carry a greater risk of gum disease since it can inhibit the body’s ability to heal. Additionally, dry mouth can be caused which may result in a greater chance of cavities. The tongue may also be afflicted through enlargement or a distorted sense of taste. Make sure to inform your dentist of any thyroid problems to ensure they know how to best deal with your particular issues.
There are many medical issues that can have a serious impact on dental and oral health and these are just few more. If you have any questions regarding the impact of an illness you may have or are looking to solve some unrelated dental issues contact Pickering Square Dental today.
Helpful Resources
For more information, visit the Government of Canada Oral Health Guide.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.
Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.
What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?
We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.