Oral Health Decline Could Lead to Thyroid Health Decline
Posted on 2/22/2021 by Dagon Jones DDS
The thyroid gland plays an active role in all body functions due to its hormone production. When the health of the thyroid declines, the effect spreads to all body parts, and your mouth is not an exception. Untreated thyroid disease will contribute to gum disease, dry mouth, and tooth decay.
Gum Disease
Poor oral hygiene increases the bacterial count and activity in the mouth, causing gum disease. Symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If untreated, gum disease puts an individual at a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. The thyroid helps in gum healing by enhancing the regeneration of gum tissue and reverse gum disease. However, if the thyroid is weak, the gums will continue to weaken and degrade, advancing to severe periodontal disease.
Dry Mouth
Saliva is necessary for a healthy mouth. It protects the mouth from cavities by neutralizing mouth acidity and flushing out food debris, bacteria, and plaque. Saliva also moistens the soft tissues, preventing them from inflammation and bad breath. Thyroid disease will affect salivary flow in the mouth, causing mouth dryness. In a dry mouth, the bacterial activity will be intense due to the high acidity. A reduced salivary flow also inhibits mineral supply to the teeth resulting in weaker teeth.
Tooth Decay
Hyperthyroid patients are more likely to experience tooth decay. This is because of the excess utilization of nutrients due to the increased thyroid activity. Overutilization of nutrients deprives teeth of a natural supply of healthy calcium and vitamins, resulting in weak enamel and tooth decay. In children, this condition may result in a premature eruption of teeth and rapid growth of teeth. Given the above relations between thyroid and oral health, you should resolve any thyroid condition with us for good oral health. You should also maintain good oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing regularly. For more details on oral and thyroid health, contact our office today.
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The thyroid gland plays an active role in all body functions due to its hormone production. When the health of the thyroid declines, the effect spreads to all body parts, and your mouth is not an exception. Untreated thyroid disease will contribute to gum disease, dry mouth, and tooth decay.