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Your dentist can spot diabetes, heart disease and cancer in early stages
Your dentist may be able to spot early signs of serious health problems just by examining your mouth. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, nutritional deficiencies, and even autoimmune disorders can often show subtle symptoms in the gums, teeth, tongue, and breath, sometimes long before other symptoms appear.
'Your mouth truly reflects what's going on in the rest of the body,' said Lt Gen Dr Vimal Arora, Chief Clinical Officer of Clove Dental. 'Your dentist, in addition to spotting dental diseases, can often identify signs of viral infections (like HIV/Aids), nutritional deficiencies (such as B12 or iron deficiency), autoimmune conditions (like Sjogren's syndrome), and systemic illnesses such as diabetes. Even a person's breath can indicate diabetes or digestive disorders. Lesions on the tongue, gum bleeding, and dry mouth are more than oral issues—they can serve as early warnings for underlying health conditions.'
Can poor oral health signal something more serious?
Bleeding gums or mouth ulcers could be signs that your body is struggling on a deeper level. According to Dr Arora, gum inflammation and chronic periodontitis are linked to higher risks of heart disease. Frequent mouth infections or wounds that don't heal may suggest diabetes or immune system issues.
'When your gums bleed or swell, it might be more than just a sign you forgot to floss. These symptoms are closely linked to diabetes and heart disease, because both conditions mess with your body's ability to fight inflammation and infections,' he explained.
Saliva and your mouth as diagnostic tools
Saliva is emerging as a superstar in diagnostics. It's painless and easy to collect, and it's packed with biomarkers that can help detect diseases early. Because your mouth is close to key nerves and blood vessels, dentists can also identify neurological problems and recommend further testing or targeted treatments.
Scientists have even discovered the same bacteria that cause gum inflammation—like Porphyromonas gingivalis—inside the blood vessels of individuals with heart disease. 'Poor glycaemic control in diabetes also worsens gum health. It's like a vicious cycle between your mouth and your body,' said Dr Arora. 'So next time you spot blood in the sink, take it as a hint to check in with your overall health.'
Can tooth sensitivity or erosion reflect internal issues?
'Tooth erosion or heightened sensitivity often tells a story about a person's diet or internal health,' said Dr Arora. Frequent acid exposure from citrusy or carbonated drinks can wear enamel, but erosion on the inner surfaces of teeth may signal acid reflux (GERD) or eating disorders like bulimia.
These conditions expose the mouth to stomach acid, wearing away tooth enamel. Dentists can catch such signs early—often before symptoms like heartburn or digestive discomfort even appear.
Dental X-rays may detect signs of osteoporosis
'A dentist may detect reduced jawbone density or changes in bone structure, which can be early signs of osteoporosis,' Dr Arora added.
Loose teeth, receding gums, or ill-fitting dentures may also point to weakening bones. Since osteoporosis often progresses silently, dentists may be the first to spot it during a routine oral exam.
What changes on your tongue could signal a health issue?
Dr Arora says your tongue is like a health barometer. White patches might mean oral thrush—often seen when the immune system is low. Red or white lesions could require closer examination to rule out oral cancer. A smooth, glossy tongue may point to iron or B12 deficiency. A black hairy tongue usually results from poor oral hygiene or prolonged antibiotic use.
Ulcers that don't heal within two weeks are also a red flag and should be checked without delay.
Don't ignore changes in your mouth—act early
Bleeding gums, persistent sores, sudden tongue changes, or strange breath odours can all be signs of deeper health issues.
So next time you visit your dentist, remember—it's not just about teeth. It could be a window into your body's overall well-being. For more health updates, follow #HealthWithBS
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