Oral Health and Digestive Disorders

Oral health and digestive health are more connected than you may think.

The link between oral health and digestive health

The systems of the body work together to help maintain a person's well-being. The digestive system breaks down the food you eat to make energy. The process starts in the mouth when you chew and swallow your food.

Gut health can affect oral health and vice versa. In fact, the first signs of digestive diseases are often seen in the mouth. It is not uncommon for these diseases to include inflammation and poor digestive function.

Inflammation is the body's natural response to tissue damage. The immune system that protects the body from outside invaders goes into overdrive for people with chronic gut problems.

Autoimmune disorders and oral symptoms

When the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body, it results in autoimmune disorders that can affect oral health. The following are known to have oral symptoms:

• Pemphigus describes a group of disorders with blisters of the skin and mucous membranes, including the gut. With this condition, blisters of the mouth or throat can make it difficult to swallow.
• Celiac disease is an autoimmune response to gluten. Oral symptoms that may occur include mouth ulcers, a shiny red tongue, dry mouth and an increased risk of tooth decay.
• Crohn's disease is a chronic gastrointestinal condition that involves inflammation of the bowel. People with Crohn's disease often have lesions throughout the gastrointestinal tract, including the mouth.

Poor digestive function and oral symptoms

Poor vitamin and mineral absorption is often a result of poor digestive function and can cause oral symptoms, such as:

• Yeast infections (thrush)
• Swelling of the tongue
• Flat, red patches on the inside of the cheeks and on the gums
• Burning Mouth Syndrome (burning sensation in the mouth)

Note: The information in this article is not meant to replace the advice of your dentist or another licensed healthcare professional. Talk to your dentist for any specific dental advice.