Certain health conditions like THYROID DISEASE, LYME DISEASE, DIABETES, CANCER, HIV AND OTHER VIRUSES, ANEMIA OR LOW IRON, EATING DISORDERS, are a risk factor for gum disease, especially gingivitis and periodontal diseases.   Poor oral health is also linked to heart disease and stroke. The gum tissues in your mouth are susceptible to chronic systemic inflammation.

Your thyroid condition has a significant impact on oral health. An imbalance in the secretion of your thyroid hormone throws the function of many body organs out of sync. Here are the major ways in which thyroid problems can adversely impact your oral health:

• Higher risk of gum disease
• Thyroid problems interfere with your body’s capacity to heal wounds and fight off infection. Research has shown that those with thyroid conditions are generally at a higher risk of gum disease. Individuals suffering thyroid problems also have a higher count of oral bacteria which contribute to bad breath and clot formation in the bloodstream.
• Swollen tongue
• Thyroid problems can cause a swelling in the throat and on the tongue. Swelling of the tongue can cause major discomfort while eating and sleeping. Often individuals suffering from thyroid disorders find it difficult to sleep as an enlarged tongue interferes with breathing.
• Greater risk of cavities

Individuals with an under active thyroid experience a greater occurrence of dental cavities, tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums, and even decaying molars. Additionally, if your child has large gaps between teeth or crowded teeth, you might consider getting them checked for hypothyroidism.

Dental decay can prove to be a huge problem. A slight pain or sensitivity in your teeth and gums make eating most foods an unpleasant task. Moreover, dental treatment can be quite expensive and painful. The good news is that with a little care and extra precaution, most common dental problems like cavities, tartar, and even root canal can be avoided. Even if you are already undergoing thyroid treatment, here are some suggestions for improving the health of your mouth:

• Brush before bed
• Brushing your teeth before bed will prevent the build-up of germs at night. Always rinse your mouth after every meal; even after your mid-day cup of coffee to prevent dental staining.
• Use dental floss
• Merely brushing isn’t enough especially if you eat non-vegetarian food. Use dental floss at least once a day to clean the gaps between your teeth or a water pik.
• Mouthwash is a must
• Using mouthwash is a great way to fight plaque and gum disease. You probably cannot carry a toothpaste around with you while you travel so mouthwash is a good substitute.
• Clean your tongue. Most cases of bad breath result from an unclean tongue. When you brush your teeth, remember to gently run the bristles over the back of your tongue as well. This will keep your mouth fresh for longer.
• Fresh dental ware
• Change your toothbrush at least once every three months. Blunt bristles are no good at cleaning your teeth. Don’t use a dental floss stick more than once even if the packet says you can. If you have been sick, change your toothbrush as soon as you are better.
• Avoid sugary foods
• Candies, sodas, chocolates, and biscuits are really bad for your teeth. They stick to the surface of your tooth enamel and eat away at the coating. This often results in cavities.
• Sensitivity must be checked.  Any kind of tooth sensitivity to hot or cold food should be checked immediately. A minor cavity, if left unattended, can lead to a major root canal or extraction which can prove painful and expensive.
• Make sure you are using quality oral care products that are free of chemicals and fluoride.

Consider Life's Healthiest Completely Natural Oral Care products. You'll find specially formulated Tooth Powders and Mouth Washes to help promote good oral health, address sensitivity and improve the health of your teeth and gums.

Start with testing, then treatment, then re-test again annually.  Learn more.

Step #1:  Comprehensive Thyroid Panel Test available without a prescription.

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