How Our Dentist Can Spot Early Signs of Serious Health Conditions

Are You Keeping Up With Regular Dental Visits?

Most people visit their dentist expecting a routine checkup, cavity screening, or professional teeth cleaning. However, many don’t realize that a dental exam can reveal much more than just the state of their teeth. Dentists are often the first to spot signs of serious health conditions that may otherwise go undetected for years.

Do you need a new dentist in Denver, CO? Look no further than Lowry Advanced Dental. Contact our dentist today at 303-333-5148. We’re welcoming new patients. 

Oral Health Conditions Dentists Can Spot

Diabetes

Diabetes affects millions of people, and many don’t realize that their dentist may be the first to recognize its warning signs.

Oral Symptoms of Diabetes:

  • Frequent gum infections or persistent gum disease
  • Dry mouth (xerostomia)
  • Delayed wound healing in the mouth
  • Fruity or sweet-smelling breath (a sign of ketoacidosis)

Diabetes weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off oral infections. If our dentist notices frequent gum issues that don’t respond to treatment, they may recommend checking your blood sugar levels.

Heart Disease

There’s a strong connection between oral health and heart disease. Dentists may identify warning signs of cardiovascular issues before other symptoms appear.

Key Indicators:

  • Swollen, inflamed gums (linked to inflammation in blood vessels)
  • Loose teeth (a potential sign of advanced gum disease and systemic issues)
  • Chronic bad breath caused by bacterial infections in the gums

Studies show that individuals with gum disease are at a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Inflammation from gum disease may contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing cardiovascular risk.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, can also affect your jawbone. Since dentists take X-rays regularly, they can sometimes detect early bone loss.

Oral Signs of Osteoporosis:

  • Receding gums (caused by a weakening jawbone)
  • Loose teeth without obvious cause
  • Poorly fitting dentures due to changes in bone structure

If our Denver, CO dentist suspects osteoporosis, they may recommend a bone density test.

Autoimmune Disorders (Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sjögren’s Syndrome)

Autoimmune diseases often have oral symptoms that patients overlook.

Warning Signs:

  • Chronic dry mouth (common in Sjögren’s syndrome)
  • Mouth ulcers that don’t heal (possible sign of lupus)
  • Jaw pain and stiffness (linked to rheumatoid arthritis)

An early diagnosis can help prevent severe complications. If our dentist notices these symptoms, they may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.

Acid Reflux (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause stomach acid to flow back into the mouth, leading to dental problems.

Oral Symptoms:

  • Eroded enamel, especially on the back of the teeth
  • Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
  • Increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods

Visit Our Denver, CO Dentist for a Dental Exam!

Your mouth can reveal a lot about your overall health. Dentists are trained to recognize the early signs of serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and autoimmune disorders. Regular dental visits don’t just protect your smile—they could save your life.

Contact our dental office in Denver, CO at 303-333-5148 to get started.