Hi, I’m dentist Dr. Gordon West, DDS. Most every day, I can be found at my Lafayette area dental office treating dental patients with tooth and gum problems or helping patients prevent them. There are many common medical conditions that pose a risk to oral health.
1) Lafayette diabetes patients with high blood glucose often have a higher risk of dental issues. If you have diabetes, let’s talk. My number is 303-665-5335.
2) A persistent dry mouth due to an inadequate amount of saliva can accelerate tooth decay, cause or contribute to gum disease, and trigger chronic bad breath. Many medications used by thousands of Longmont and Louisville folks, including those for high-blood pressure and depression, cause dry mouth. This side effect is not only unpleasant, it is dangerous. Anti-depressants (especially SSRI’s) and anti-psychotic drugs can also trigger tooth-grinding (bruxism).
3) Acid reflux in children and adults is associated with a host of dental problems such as decay and periodontal disease.
I help many Colorado dental patients prevent problems associated with medical conditions that sometimes seem unrelated to dental health. Regular professional dental care is essential for oral health, and an important part of your overall physical health.