Your Mouth is The Gateway to Good Overall Health

Researchers have been connecting the health of your mouth with the rest of your body for some time now.? Lately even more studies have shown that some problems that begin in your mouth could predict trouble for other areas of your body.

Bleeding gums can be a symptom of a hormonal imbalance.? Gum tissue has hormone receptors embedded within it.? During pregnancy, for example, some women experience bleeding gums because of hormonal changes.? Studies have indicated that women also have more sensitive gums during their menstrual cycles.

Red mouth and fat tongue can be a symptom of a nutritional deficiency.? If the corners of your mouth are red, that can be a sign of a B-6 vitamin deficiency.? A swollen, red tongue can be a sign of iron deficiency.? A pale tongue can be a sign of anemia.

Bad breath can be a symptom of gastrointestinal issues.? Halitosis can also indicate an underlying liver or kidney problem.? Diabetics can have musty breath if their diabetes is not under control.

Canker sores can be a symptom of gluten intolerance or mineral deficiency.? People who are zinc-deficient also tend to have frequent canker sores.? A recent study suggests having food allergy tests for those with frequent canker sores.

Some infectious diseases like HIV can manifest themselves inside the mouth in specific presentations.? Your dentist and hygienist at Tremont Dental Care in the South End of Boston are often the first to observe such findings.

Gum disease can be a symptom of heart problems.? Many studies have linked heart disease and gum disease.? The more we learn about this connection the clearer it becomes that good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups help not just your mouth but your heart and your entire body.