Common Medical Problems That Your Dentist Can Spot First

Regular dental check ups are essential for maintaining your oral health, where your dentist can spot emerging problems with your teeth and gums in addition to scheduling deep cleans with a hygienist. This can help you to ensure that your mouth remains in good condition throughout your life, which will contribute to your general wellbeing as you age.

Dentists undergo thorough medical training that allows them to offer a comprehensive insight into your oral health. This goes beyond your teeth and gums, where your dental professional will also take an in depth look at your mouth, tongue and throat. As such, your dentist may be able to spot early signs of various health conditions that can otherwise go undiagnosed.

Read on for a look at some common but serious health conditions that your dentist could pick up on during a routine appointment.

Diabetes

An experienced dental professional will be able to spot early signs of diabetes in their patients. Tooth decay, mouth ulcers and gum disease can all be symptoms of diabetes as well as signs of poor oral hygiene, where these signs are increasingly common in elderly patients with the condition.

Cancer

Dentists may also be able to detect early signs of oral cancer during a routine appointment, where this kind of prompt intervention can be life saving. Lumps can be detected on your cheeks, tongue or neck by your dental professional, where you will then be referred to a formal cancer screening to check the status of these growths.



Anaemia

Anaemia is another condition that can be identified during a dental check up. Symptoms such as pale gums and a smooth tongue can indicate that you are anaemic, where your dentist will be able to recommend appropriate next steps to take so that you can receive the appropriate medical care.

Osteoporosis 

Osteoporosis is a type of bone disease, where the early signs can be difficult to detect. Your dentist can spot these warning signs before you experience a bone fracture or detect any indications of weakness, where oral symptoms can include tooth loss, bone deterioration and gum disease.

Acorn Dental Health: Routine & Emergency Dental Care

At Acorn Dental Health, our priority is your oral wellbeing, where we offer routine check ups and comprehensive hygienist appointments to help keep you smiling. Our experienced dentists are adept at spotting the early signs of serious health conditions, so you can trust that you’re in good hands. Get in touch with our dental practice today to make your appointment.