Celiac disease affects 1 in every 100 people around the world, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation. The autoimmune disease causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is ingested, which is a protein found in wheat and grains. Without the correct management plan, it can affect your overall wellness and harm your dental health. If you have celiac disease, here’s what you need to know to protect your oral health.
Oral Health Risks Linked to Celiac Disease
Celiac disease can affect both children and adults, which means it can harm primary and permanent teeth. Managing the condition is essential for preventing various dental issues, including:
- Enamel Defects: Celiac disease can cause teeth to have white, yellow, or brown discoloration. Children with the condition can experience poor enamel formation, which can cause pits and other defects.
- Canker Sores: Canker sores are another oral manifestation of celiac disease. Also known as aphthous stomatitis, the sores can appear on the lips, cheeks, tongue, gums, and palate.
- Dry Mouth: Celiac disease is linked to a condition that causes dry eyes and mouth. If your mouth is too dry, it enhances oral bacteria growth, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Maintaining a Healthy Smile with Celiac Disease
Celiac disease can be managed by excluding foods containing gluten from your diet. This will prevent damage to the lining of your intestines and decrease stomach symptoms. You can safeguard your smile from complications by maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes twice per day and floss daily.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which will keep your mouth moist. You can also use a humidifier to add moisture to the air to combat dry eyes and mouth.
Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll monitor your dental health for any concerns, like enamel loss or recurrent canker sores. They can create a personalized strategy to protect your dental health from the effects of celiac disease.
If you’ve experienced dental issues from the autoimmune disease, like tooth discoloration or enamel defects, they can reverse the effects using specific treatments, like porcelain veneers or teeth whitening.
A healthy, beautiful smile is possible by taking control of your diet. If you suspect you have celiac disease or have difficulty managing the condition, contact your physician for an effective treatment plan.
About Dr. Marvin Berger
Dr. Berger earned his dental degree from the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery. He has earned a certificate in periodontology and has regularly continued his education to provide the most up-to-date services, including dental implants. Contact his office through his website or call (717) 836-1259.
