While cavities and plaque build-up may be what’s on your mind before a teeth cleaning, your dentist is looking for a whole lot more. Often, diseases like cancer, anemia and diabetes will first be identified by the dentist in a regular examination, and this can save lives. Take a look at things they can see:
You don’t floss regularly. Sorry, but you can’t fool your dentist into thinking you floss daily by doing so the night before or morning of your visit.
You’re pregnant. Nearly 40% of women will develop gingivitis during their pregnancy. This is caused by increased progesterone, which facilitates the growth of bacteria, causing gingivitis.
Thumb sucking. Most children who sucked their thumbs past the age of seven or eight may show significant changes to their bite or the position of their teeth.
You have bad breath. General bad breath is categorized as halitosis. But fruity breath could indicate uncontrolled diabetes or a dietary fast that has gone too far, while fishy breath could be a sign of kidney or liver failure.
Eating disorders. Many patients are surprised that their dentist is the first one to ask about eating disorders. Bulimia exhibits a very distinct pattern of tooth wear that your dentist can easily identify.
Oral cancer. The first signs of oral cancer can be seen from the following: unexplained bleeding in the mouth, white, red, or speckled patches in the mouth, a change in the way your teeth fit together, swellings, thickenings, lumps or bumps or eroded areas on the lips, gums, or other areas inside the mouth.
You love soda and energy drinks. That teeth can be softened by sodas, energy drinks and other sugary beverages over time, which may make a tooth enamel more susceptible to chipping.
If you would like more information about dental hygiene, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.
Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.