Celiac disease is a condition that primarily affects the digestive system, but it can also have significant impacts on your oral health. Understanding these connections can help you maintain a healthier mouth and seek appropriate dental care if you suspect your child or you might be affected.
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where ingesting gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye – triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. This damage can lead to various symptoms, ranging from digestive issues to fatigue and even to problems that affect oral health.
Oral Health Symptoms of Celiac Disease
If you have celiac disease, you might notice some unusual issues with your teeth and gums. These symptoms can include:
- Enamel Defects
Due to enamel hypoplasia, teeth may appear discolored, pitted, or have an unusual shape, which is more common in people with celiac disease.
- Recurrent Canker Sores
Painful ulcers on the soft tissues inside your mouth may be more frequent.
- Delayed Dental Development
In children, celiac disease can cause a delay in the eruption of teeth or other developmental issues.
- Dry Mouth
A lack of saliva can lead to increased tooth decay and gum disease.
- Tongue & Mouth Damage
Inflammation of the tongue and cracking at the corners of the mouth can be signs of nutrient deficiencies, common in those with untreated celiac disease.
How to Protect Your Oral Health
Managing oral health with celiac disease involves both medical and dental care. Here are some steps you can take:
- Adopt a Strict Gluten-Free Diet
This is the only effective treatment for celiac disease and helps prevent the symptoms that affect your mouth.
- Address Dry Mouth
Drinking plenty of water, chewing sugar-free gum, and using mouth moisturizers can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
- Nutritional Supplements
Work with your healthcare provider to ensure you get enough essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins, which are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
- Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride can help strengthen enamel and protect against decay, especially if enamel defects have weakened your teeth.
- Regular Dental Visits
Schedule check-ups every six months to monitor and treat any dental issues early.
Why See a Dentist?
If you suspect you have celiac disease or have been diagnosed with it, regular dental care is crucial. At our dental office in Lake Oswego, we offer specialized care for all of our patients, including those with celiac disease. We can:
- Screen for enamel defects, allowing for early detection to help prevent further complications.
- Offer fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel and prevent decay.
- Provide advice on managing dry mouth tailored to your needs.
Don’t let celiac disease take a toll on your oral health. With the right care, you can maintain a healthy smile. If you’re looking for a dentist in Lake Oswego who understands the unique challenges of celiac disease, contact our office today. We’re here to help you protect your teeth and gums and ensure your oral health is in the best possible shape.
