Usually, tooth decay is a product of poor oral hygiene. This occurs when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugary or starchy foods and leave acids that slowly eat away at the tooth’s enamel. Poor oral hygiene can accumulate plaque and bacteria, which can lead to cavities and decay.

That being said, sometimes, tooth decays are a telling sign of something more serious. Here are five serious diseases that often list tooth decay as an unfortunate complication. If you or someone you know is suffering from any of these conditions, talk with your dentist in Newton, MA to discuss how best to care for your teeth.

1. Diabetes

Diabetes is a severe condition that affects millions of people around the world. It affects the body’s ability to process sugar properly, leading to excess sugar in the blood. This can lead to various problems, including poor circulation, nerve damage, and increased heart disease and stroke risk.

One of the lesser-known effects of diabetes is the increased risk of tooth decay. When you have diabetes, your body cannot process sugar properly, leading to excess sugar in your saliva. This sugar can feed the bacteria in your mouth, increasing plaque and eventually tooth decay.

2. Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), is a common condition that affects many people. It occurs when stomach acid and other contents go up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and even damage to the enamel of the teeth.

The primary cause of acid reflux is an imbalance in the production of stomach acids, usually caused by factors such as diet, stress, medications, and even genetics. When stomach acid rises and reaches your mouth, it can wear away the enamel of the teeth.

3. Gastrointestinal Diseases

Gastrointestinal diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can significantly impact oral health. These diseases are chronic inflammatory conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract and can cause inflammation of the intestinal lining. When this occurs, the intestinal lining can become more porous, allowing bacteria, viruses, and toxins to pass through more easily. This can cause increased inflammation in the mouth, leading to elevated levels of tooth decay and other oral health problems.

4. Eating Disorders

Eating disorders can have a severe impact on your dental health. People with eating disorders often have poor nutrition, lacking the essential vitamins and minerals necessary to keep teeth healthy and strong. This can increase the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and other oral health problems.

The most common eating disorders in the US are anorexia and bulimia. Anorexia is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. People with anorexia often severely restrict their food intake, leading to malnourishment and vitamin deficiencies. Meanwhile, bulimia is characterized by binge eating followed by purging, which can cause acid erosion of the teeth.

5. Dry Mouth

A dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition where the body cannot produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. Without saliva, bacteria can accumulate and attack the teeth, leading to tooth decay.

Conclusion 

Taking care of your teeth is essential, even if you suffer from a health condition that can lead to tooth decay. Regular dental checkups with dentists in Newton MA and brushing your teeth twice daily can help prevent tooth decay and other dental problems. Additionally, suppose you are suffering from a condition that can lead to tooth decay. In that case, speaking to your doctor to address the underlying condition causing your teeth decay is crucial.

Auburndale Dental is proud to offer comprehensive dental oral examinations in Auburndale, MA. We understand the importance of keeping your teeth healthy and want to make sure you have access to the best dental care available. Make an appointment today with Auburndale Dental and protect your teeth from damage and decay.