It’s often been said that the mouth is a window into the health of the body. Research suggests that certain types of bacteria in the mouth play a significant role in diseases found in other parts of the body. In contrast, certain conditions contribute to lowering the body’s resistance to infection. This, in turn, may cause problems with your oral health.
This emphasizes the importance of regular and thorough dental examinations, which could turn out to be your first line of defense against serious disease.
Diseases of the Mouth
There are a variety of diseases that directly affect the mouth. They include the following:
- Fibroma: Fibroma (also referred to as fibroid tumors or fibroids), is a benign tumor that often manifests itself as a bump or lump in the mouth. Fibromas are typically harmless, but should still be examined by your dentist.
- Leukoplakia: This condition is recognizable by the white patches that develop within the mouth. These patches are typically benign; however, they should be biopsied to rule out any possibility of cancer.
- Lichen Planus: This is an inflammatory disease in which your immune system mistakenly attacks skin cells or mucous membranes. Often, itchy or painful bumps and sores form as a result.
- Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid: This is a serious (yet rare) autoimmune disease. Symptoms include the formation of oral lesions.
- Thrush: Oral thrush (or oral candidiasis) is a condition in which the fungus Candida albicans takes root in the mouth. It is characterized by the resulting white lesions. Thrush occurs most often in babies and children, older persons, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Oral Cancer: Oral cancer may affect many different parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, throat and palate. Although potentially life-threatening, early diagnosis of this disease often results in successful treatment.
Other Diseases
In other cases, diseases originate in other parts of the body; however, they significantly affect the condition of the mouth, leading to their discovery. For example, diabetes may cause thrush. Those infected with the HIV virus may experience dry mouth or suffer from ulcers or other painful lesions. Cardiovascular (heart) disease, Oseteoporosis, Chron’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and other conditions may also cause problems with the mouth.
If it’s been six months since your last dental examination, why not make an appointment with the Case Dental Group today? Doing so will prove beneficial not only to your oral health, but to your overall health as well.