If you are on a gluten-free diet it’s because you struggle with adverse reactions to products containing wheat, barley, rye and other grains. After eating products that contain gluten, you may have gastrointestinal problems, aching joints, headaches, cramps, exhaustion or other issues. But did you know that having gluten sensitivity can also impact your oral health?Research suggests that individuals with celiac disease, which is a disease that triggers an irregular immune system response during gluten digestion, may be predisposed to tooth decay and gum disease. This is a result of the body’s inability to digest essential vitamins and minerals during a gluten “flare up.”
A recent study showed that gluten causes the body to produce an immune reaction against one of the proteins responsible for producing teeth enamel. This may result in tooth enamel degradation, which occurs when teeth become weaker and more easily destroyed by tooth decay. Other effects of gluten sensitivity on your oral health include:
- canker sores
- tonsil stones
- geographic tongue
- excessive mucus
- bad breath
- gum disease
- a bad taste in the mouth.
If those who are gluten sensitive eat too much gluten they may have difficulty digesting healthy amounts of vitamin A, magnesium, beta-carotene, calcium and other nutrients that are vital in maintaining health.
If you are not sure if you are gluten sensitive, you can try eliminating gluten from your diet for a period of time to see if your symptoms change. If you think your oral health has been impacted by your gluten sensitivity, contact the Lakeway Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry today to set up a dental appointment.