Schedule Appointment
New Patients: 503-647-4565  |   Current Patients: 503-636-2525
Nicholas Dose, DMD Family Dentistry
Decrotive overlay of white triangle

Medical Conditions That Affect Teeth and Gums

added on: April 25, 2021

Oral health isn’t just about taking care of your gumsDentist showing technique of brushing teeth to his female patient in dental clinic and teeth – it also includes taking care of your body. This is because oral and physical health are linked – there are many medical conditions that directly and indirectly affect your oral health. We have outlined some of the most popular ones below.

Diabetes

Those suffering from diabetes should pay special attention to their oral health because they are more likely to develop cavities which can lead to tooth decay and loss of teeth. Diabetes can also cause periodontitis, i.e., severe gum disease. This can be avoided by making sure that your blood sugar is under control, and by practicing good oral hygiene.

High Blood Pressure

While this doesn’t directly affect oral health, it still results in oral disease. This is because medication to lower blood pressure may cause gingival enlargement, i.e., a disease that causes a person’s gums to increase in size.

(uprocessed brackets warning)[ [ [

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease affects your teeth by damaging your tooth enamel. Stomach acid dissolves enamel and so, those suffering from acid reflux usually have signs of erosion on their back teeth.

To combat this, stop eating at least two hours before you go to bed. You can also avoid things like caffeine, alcohol, and acidic food to reduce this. During the day, those with acid reflux can rinse their mouths with water upon feeling the effects of the condition. You should also avoid brushing your teeth right afterwards since this does more harm than good. Because the acid has softened the enamel, brushing your teeth will only damage them.

If you suffer from any of these conditions, please make sure to keep an eye on your oral health. If you’re concerned about how this might affect you, Dr. Dose and can go over any and all details with you.

Simply call Nicholas Dose, DMD at (503) 765-7300 to make an appointment, and we’ll pencil you in.

About The Author
Dr. Nicholas Dose

Dr. Nicholas Dose grew up in a dental family and knew from a young age that he wanted to pursue dentistry. He keeps up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field and is an active member of various dental organizations, where he and his peers discuss dentistry treatments and trends. Among the organizations he is active with are the Academy of General Dentistry, American Society of Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry, Clackamas County Dental Society, American Dental Association, and the Oregon Dental Association.

Posted In: Uncategorized