Though poor oral hygiene is the leading cause behind tooth decay, it isn't the only cause. Our body is interconnected, and other more severe health conditions can also result in tooth decay. If you follow a proper oral healthcare routine and still notice signs of tooth decay, it could indicate something more serious.
Diabetes
Diabetes doesn't just affect your blood sugar levels; it affects various other parts of the body, including the mouth. In fact, some of the earliest symptoms of diabetes appear in the mouth. A typical example can be a dry mouth. Whether you have Type1 or Type2 diabetes, lower insulin levels in the body disrupt saliva production in the mouth.
Saliva is essential for our oral and dental health as it keeps bacteria production to a minimum. Lack of saliva fuels bacteria production, allowing it to stick to the teeth and the gums, leading to the development of various oral problems, including tooth decay and gingivitis. What's worse is that gum disease can further lower insulin levels in the body, worsening one's health. Thus, the earlier one detects and treats these symptoms, the better.
Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune disease is a severe disease in which the body starts attacking itself. It could be as severe as the body attacking its own kidneys to something like it affecting the salivary glands, again leading to a dry mouth. In some extreme cases, those with the autoimmune condition may experience no saliva production at all.
Eating Disorders
Anorexia and Bulimia are two eating disorders that impact the oral and dental health of an individual. Whether you eat too little or forcefully vomit all you eat, your body does not get the required nutrients to maintain its oral and dental health. Slowly, the tooth enamel weakens, leaving your dental structure prone to bacteria attacks. Bad breath, yellowing teeth, swollen or bleeding gums are also signs of eating disorders.
Several other diseases can lead to tooth decay. Sometimes, tooth decay is an early symptom of severe health conditions. We suggest that you come in to Mahar Dental for your regular dental check-ups twice yearly, so we can identify signs of tooth decay and prevent long-lasting damage.
Though poor oral hygiene is the leading cause behind tooth decay, it isn't the only cause. Our body is interconnected, and other more severe health conditions can also result in tooth decay. If you follow a proper oral healthcare routine and still notice signs of tooth decay, it could indicate something more serious.