Early detection of serious medical conditions is being
made in an unexpected place — the dental office.
Because many other diseases can cause specific signs
and symptoms in and around the mouth and jaw, dentists
see clues that may point to critical health issues.
As a result, increasing numbers of dentists are urging
their patients to seek medical tests that seem unrelated
to their dental checkups.
Jed J. Jacobson, D.D.S., M.S., M.P.H., vice president
of Professional Services and dental director at the
affiliated Delta Dental Plans of Michigan, Ohio and
Indiana, refers to a case in which a New Jersey woman
had an undiagnosed illness. During this time she visited
her periodontist for a periodic checkup. He found his
patient had an enlarged thyroid gland and referred her
to a physician for follow-up.
"More than 120 disease signs and symptoms can
now be detected through a routine oral exam," said
Dr. Jacobson. "Regular dental checkups are more
important than ever, not only for oral health but for
general well being."
Dentists also perform thorough oral cancer examinations
including inspection of the oral cavity and neck. Since
cancers of the mouth, tongue and jaw are usually first
discovered during dental examinations, dentists are
at the forefront for saving lives.
Oral Clues That May Indicate
a Serious Health Problem:
Anemia: Burning fiery red tongue,
inflammation of the corners of mouth or pale gum
tissues.
Diabetes: Dry mouth, distinctive
breath odor, burning tongue, high rate of tooth
decay, inflammation and infections in the mouth.
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia:
Chemical erosion of tooth enamel, fillings may appear
to be raised above the eroded tooth surfaces, sensitive
teeth, enlargement of the parotid glands making
the face look full and round, sweet aroma of the
patient's breath.
Kidney failure: Retarded tooth
development in children, dry mouth, odor, metallic
taste and ulcers on the tongue and gums.
Deficient immune system (HIV positive):
Unexplained sore(s), red mouth due to opportunistic
yeast infections (thrush mouth), non-removable white
areas on the sides of the tongue.
Heart disease: Pain radiating
to the jaw caused by insufficient oxygen to the
heart muscle.
Dentists Find Clues to General Health Disorders