thyroid and dental health Archives

If You Have to Drink Soda, Drink Root Beer

by clottman | Jul 18, 2019 | Dental Health, Yukon Dental Implants

If you regularly consume soft drinks, here’s something to keep in mind. If you have to drink soda, drink root beer.

Exposing teeth to soft drinks, even for a short period of time, causes dental erosion, which over time can lead to significant enamel loss. Drinking any type of soft drink poses risk to the health of your teeth, If you’re looking for a soft drink that’s a bit less damaging, seek out root beer products. Root beer is non-carbonated and according to a recent report in General Dentistry, does not contain the acids that harm teeth.

Many people opt for “diet” drinks in an effort to lessen tooth damage caused by sugars in soda, but diet drinks often contain phosphoric acid and/or citric acid and still cause dental erosion, though considerably less than their sugared counterparts.

Dental erosion is characterized by the loss of tooth enamel and at times deeper parts of the tooth. Erosion results in a scooped out, smooth depression on the tooth’s surface. In many cases, tooth erosion causes sensitivity to hot and cold substances or painful sensitivity if the enamel is worn to such a degree that the dentin is exposed. Beneath the enamel, dentin protects the pulp—the innermost part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels.

Route 66 Smiles recommends that patients consume fewer soft drinks by limiting their intake to meals. We also advise patients to drink with a straw, which reduces soda’s contact with teeth. Many patients are shocked to hear that many of the soft drinks they consume contain 9 to 12 teaspoons of sugar, Researchers concluded that non-colas cause a greater amount of erosion than colas. Citric acid is the predominant acid in non-cola drinks and is a major factor in why non-cola drinks are especially erosive. There is a significant difference between sugared and diet colas.

Contact Route 66 Smiles, Yukon cosmetic dentistry to schedule your consultation. Or, Just call us at (405) 494-7227.

Relationship Between Your Thyroid and Dental Health

by clottman | Jul 5, 2019 | Dental Health

Thyroid Issues Affect Dental Health

It is very important to understand the relationship between your thyroid health and your oral health. According to Dr. Izabella Wentz, a doctor of pharmacy, the same bacteria that contribute to gum disease or periodontitis produce an inflammatory response associated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis—the underlying cause of hypothyroidism. Most patients with this autoimmune disease also have periodontitis. Wentz also noted that fluoride treatments may worsen the condition for those suffering from thyroid disorders.

Thyroid disorders of any kind can also lead to the following oral health challenges:

Gum Disease

Damaged or weakened gums are more likely to develop gum disease, which leads to increased bacterial presence in the mouth. Not only does this increase the risk of infection but also the likelihood of swollen or bleeding gums and jaw spasms. Worse still, some research suggests that increased bacterial presence associated with gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

The thyroid is an important factor in the natural healing process. In a healthy system, gum tissue regenerates, which protects against periodontal disease and even contribute to the reversal of gingivitis. However, inhibited restorative ability caused by thyroid disease may lead to weakening or degradation of the gums.

Dysgeusia

Thyroid patients may develop a condition known as dysgeusia, in which their sense of taste is altered. In some cases, the change in flavor can be dramatic. This may result in dietary alterations that cause patients to avoid healthy foods and miss out on beneficial or essential nutrients that compound the issue.

Dry Mouth

Saliva is an important part of health by helping to maintain oral wellness. This natural protectant reduces the risk of cavities through the dissolution of foods, removal of bacteria and food particles, and prevention of plaque buildup. Saliva also delivers minerals and other nutrients critical for maintaining tooth strength and structure.

Thyroid disease can limit saliva production thereby contributing to dry mouth. Without a regular supply of saliva, food particles can more easily cling to teeth, which increases the risk of bacterial growth, tooth decay, and cavities. With reduced saliva also comes reduced mineral delivery, which results in weaker teeth over time.

Macroglossia

A common symptom of hypothyroidism is expansion of the tongue. This can make it difficult for patients to chew, swallow, speak, and in some cases even breathing can become a challenge. Those who do experience macroglossia-related breathing difficulties are often unable to get restful sleep. This is because the enlarged tongue may force the individual to snore or breathe with their mouth open. Sleeping with the mouth open can lead to oral dryness and contribute to tooth decay.

Tooth Decay

Those with an overactive thyroid are more likely to experience a hastening of tooth decay. This may be caused by the excess utilization and burning of nutrients caused by increased thyroid activity. The increased rate of tooth decay seen in hyperthyroid patients may cause patients to experience sensitivity in the teeth, pain in the jaw, and accelerated molar degradation.

Improper Tooth Development

Children who have a thyroid issue may experience development issues pertaining to their teeth and jaw. Some outcomes include crowded teeth, premature eruption of permanent teeth, large gaps between teeth, enlarged or inflamed gums, gums extending between teeth, and increased occurrence of cavities. Parents who recognize that their child is experiencing pain or weakness in the jaw or abnormalities of the mouth should have their child’s thyroid assessed by a knowledgeable physician like an endocrinologist.

Support the Thyroid and Protect Your Mouth

Good dental hygiene through regular brushing and flossing is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. However, protecting the thyroid and resolving any existing thyroid dysfunction is also important. The impressive impact of the thyroid on many areas throughout the body, including the mouth, makes it an essential system regarding individual wellness.

If you are suffering from a decline in dental health while also experiencing the common signs of thyroid disease such as fatigue, fluctuations in weight, hair loss, and/or changes in mood, speak with your doctor about having your thyroid tested. Resolving thyroid disease may not only improve overall wellness, but also alleviate dental distress.

Proper management of thyroid disease is crucial for the successful treatment of periodontal diseases, says Wellness Alternatives. Untreated and longstanding thyroid disease, especially hypothyroidism, contributes to periodontal disease and can weaken the specialized tissues that support the teeth. If you have thyroid disease and are concerned about your dental health issues, contact Route 66 Smiles in Yukon, OK at (405) 494-7227.