 Dentists
Find Clues to General Health Disorders
Early detection of serious medical conditions is being made
in an unexpected place — the dental office. Because
many other diseases can cause specific signs and symptoms
in and around the mouth and jaw, dentists see clues that may
point to critical health issues. As a result, increasing numbers
of dentists are urging their patients to seek medical tests
that seem unrelated to their dental checkups.
Jed J. Jacobson, D.D.S., M.S., M.P.H., vice president of
Professional Services and dental director at Delta Dental
of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, refers to a case in which a
New Jersey woman had an undiagnosed illness. During this time
she visited her periodontist for a periodic checkup. He found
his patient had an enlarged thyroid gland and referred her
to a physician for follow-up.
"More than 120 disease signs and symptoms can now be
detected through a routine oral exam," said Dr. Jacobson.
"Regular dental checkups are more important than ever,
not only for oral health but for general well being."
Dentists also perform thorough oral cancer examinations including
inspection of the oral cavity and neck. Since cancers of the
mouth, tongue and jaw are usually first discovered during
dental examinations, dentists are at the forefront for saving
lives.
Oral Clues That May Indicate a Serious Health Problem:
-
Anemia: Burning fiery red tongue, inflammation
of the corners of mouth or pale gum tissues.
-
Diabetes: Dry mouth, distinctive breath
odor, burning tongue, high rate of tooth decay, inflammation
and infections in the mouth.
-
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia: Chemical
erosion of tooth enamel, fillings may appear to be raised
above the eroded tooth surfaces, sensitive teeth, enlargement
of the parotid glands making the face look full and round,
sweet aroma of the patient's breath.
-
Kidney failure: Retarded tooth development
in children, dry mouth, odor, metallic taste and ulcers
on the tongue and gums.
-
Deficient immune system (HIV positive):
Unexplained sore(s), red mouth due to opportunistic yeast
infections (thrush mouth), non-removable white areas on
the sides of the tongue.
-
Heart disease: Pain radiating to the
jaw caused by insufficient oxygen to the heart muscle.
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