The thyroid gland produces hormones needed for a vast range of bodily functions. In its normal state, it instills homeostasis across various systems in the body. But when it goes into an override or a hiatus, it can wreak havoc across various parts of the body, including your mouth.
Thyroid dysfunctions are heavily linked to a wide range of dental ailments like gum disease and tooth decay. If you’ve been diagnosed with thyroid hormone imbalance and are currently grappling with gum disease, you might need to tackle the ailments on both the thyroid gland and dental fronts.
Tooth Problems that Result from Thyroid Hormone Imbalance
Certain groups of thyroid patients are more vulnerable to certain types of oral problems. For instance, middle-aged women and women in menopause often experience burning sensations on the tongue or lips – a condition known as burning mouth sensation. Patients with hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland underperforms, experience oral problems like tongue enlargement (macroglossia), gum disease, a long-winding recovery from mouth sores, tooth infection and gum disease. Those with hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid are more susceptible to dental problems like cavities, osteoporosis in the jaws, rapid tooth growth in children, and others.
Thyroid patients in general are prone to oral problems like dry mouth. Besides dehydration, dry mouth is usually accompanied by other debilitating symptoms like sore mouth, difficulties with swallowing, and even tooth decay.
While treating your thyroid hormonal imbalance can help heal these dental ailments, treating the dental problems separately can help you remedy them much faster. If you’re currently experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to book frequent follow-up appointments with our dentists to monitor and treat the development of these symptoms. We’ll recommend lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medication that’ll help you overcome your symptoms.
