If you’re experiencing pain, one of the very first health professionals that may be able to identify the cause could be your dentist in Naples. Why is that? Many people don’t know that oral conditions and overall health conditions alike share symptoms that occur in the mouth. Therefore, there are many things that a dentist may be able to determine by just taking a quick glance at your teeth and gums. Learn more in this week’s blog post!
What can a dentist tell during your dental appointment?
You might be embarrassed to admit it (and probably fib about it to your dentist), but they can tell if you don’t floss your teeth every day—but that’s not all. Your dentist can pick up on signs around your mouth that point to these other conditions.
1. Your dentist can tell if you have a bad nail biting habit.
If you use your teeth for anything but chewing your food, your dentist will be able to tell the difference. Not only will the enamel of your front teeth begin to wear down and show signs of erosion, but you might even experience some slight sensitivity in the front of your smile.
The same goes for if you continue to chew on the pieces or other foreign objects (like ice) in the back of your smile. You’ll wear away enamel and risk cracking or chipping your teeth.
2. Your dentist can determine if you floss on a regular basis.
Although we mentioned this above, your dentist can tell the difference between gums that are used to being flossed on a regular basis compared to those who only feel the thread of floss once a week or less. Your gums will appear to be more sensitive, may become inflamed or even bleed when your dentist cleans away plaque and tartar during your preventive care appointment.
3. Your dentist will be able to tell if you’re pregnant.
There is more than one condition that can affect the health of your gums—and pregnancy is one of them. When a woman’s body changes to help develop a baby, it goes through many hormonal shifts. These increases in estrogen can also affect the gums, causing them to bleed more often, become sensitive, and could even catalyze gum disease if you don’t care for your smile attentively.
4. Your dentist will also be able to see if you’re lacking vitamins and nutrients.
Your teeth and gums depend on vital vitamins and nutrients like any other part of your body. If you’re lacking in your daily diet, missing your multivitamin, or even not drinking enough water, it will all show in your mouth. Your breath will smell different, your saliva will be thicker, and your teeth can even become brittle.
If your dentist notices any of these things during your dental checkup, you can be confident that they will discuss them with you. Your dentist is here to help you improve your oral health and maintain it!
About Our Office
Here at Galleria Dentistry, we believe that everyone deserves to have a healthy smile all the time. Whether you’re dealing with other bodily concerns, your family dentist in Naples is here to be a partner in improving your overall health, starting with your smile. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.