The thyroid gland may be little, yet it plays a huge part in our bodies’ day-to-day operations. So much so that all of our cells, including those involved in the health of our teeth and gums, depend on the thyroid to function correctly.
Unfortunately, up to 60% of Americans with thyroid dysfunction are entirely ignorant of their disease. Thyroid abnormalities impact about 12% of Americans and may cause a host of other health difficulties, including dental issues like ulcers and gum disease.
However, there is some good news. Most thyroid disorders may be managed if detected early and treated appropriately, reducing the risk of serious diseases later. In certain cases, your dentist may assist discover thyroid disease symptoms and aid in early diagnosis.
What is Thyroid Disorder and How Does It Affect You?
Thyroid dysfunction occurs when the thyroid gland is unable to generate adequate hormones to regulate metabolism and advise our bodies on how to operate. Thyroid abnormalities may strike men and women at any age, from childhood to late adulthood; nevertheless, women are more likely to be diagnosed with thyroid problems (about 5x to 8x more likely).
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the two most common thyroid conditions.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid produces insufficient hormones and hormone levels are too low. The body’s basic functions slow down, causing symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, and increased susceptibility to cold.
Hyperthyroidism However, happens when the thyroid generates too many hormones, and their levels are too high. This leads the body to go into overdrive, producing fatigue, increased heart rate, weight loss, and anxiety.
What Is the Relationship Between Thyroid Disease and Oral Health?
Both thyroid abnormalities have been related to a number of dental health issues, such as gum disease and tooth decay, and these issues often begin in the mouth. Oral health issues, like diabetes, might be one of the first indicators of thyroid illness.
Thyroid illness may cause a variety of oral health issues, including:
More than half of patients with thyroid illness suffer from dry mouth, a disorder affecting the salivary glands. While this might cause discomfort, such as difficulties swallowing, it also has a direct impact on your teeth. Your mouth becomes a breeding ground for gum disease and tooth decay if you don’t have enough saliva to wash away food and germs. You’re more prone to plaque accumulation and the quick development of cavities if you don’t have enough saliva.
Inflammation and bleeding of the gums are common in patients with thyroid problems. Mouth sores may heal slower in hypothyroidism patients, increasing the risk of infection. The thyroid impacts the body’s capacity to repair, making gingivitis more difficult to cure.
Chewing, swallowing, or speech difficulties: Thyroid disease patients often have a swollen tongue, known as macroglossia, which makes it difficult to use your mouth. It may also make breathing more difficult, raising the risk of snoring and dry mouth when sleeping.
With Thyroid Disease, Taking Care of Your Oral Health
If you have thyroid disease, you should see your dentist regularly and discuss it with him. Your dentist may discover hormonal irregularities during a routine visit and refer you to a primary care physician if necessary. Maintaining good oral health and working with your dentist to monitor your symptoms might help you create a strategy that works for you.
Dental treatments may need to be adjusted depending on the specific problem and its severity. Certain antiseptics, vasoconstrictors, and post-procedure medicines, for example, may need to be avoided in certain situations. In more severe cases, if a patient’s blood pressure and pulse rate are excessively high, dental operations may be postponed. Medications used to treat secondary disorders of thyroid illness, such as heart difficulties, might impact how you react to blood clots and anaesthesia, which your dentist should be aware of before any major treatment.
There are additional methods to customise your routine to a thyroid problem outside of the dentist’s office. Those who suffer from dry mouth may find comfort in toothpastes and mouthwashes designed expressly to combat the condition.
You may also want to explore switching to xylitol-sweetened foods and beverages. The material may help you reduce the amount of carbohydrates that cavity-causing bacteria need, as well as other hazardous bacteria in your mouth by up to 75%.
As usual, make an appointment with your dentist at dental clinic penang twice a year and inform them of any changes you’ve seen in your mouth or general health. Thyroid illness does not have a cure, but with the correct maintenance and treatment strategies, you can ensure that it does not impact your beautiful smile or your dental health.
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