5 Diseases that Your Carmel Valley Dentist Can Identify

We all go to the dentist for our cleanings and “hope” the dentist does not find a cavity.  Little did you know that your Carmel Valley dentist is not just looking for cavities.  A thorough check up should include a periodontal (gums and bones) exam as well as an oral cancer screening and a TMJ exam.  The oral cavity is a mirror for the rest of your body, so a dentist can pick up on your systemic problems by simply performing a dental check.

Here are the 5 Diseases/Conditions that your Carmel Valley dentist can identify.

#1.  Diabetes

Many people have diabetes and don’t know it.  I have referred many patients to their primary doctor for blood work to rule out diabetes for their periodontal condition.  I typically see increases in their plaque build up, dry mouth, increase in cavities and bad breath.  The smell is similar to a sour fruit smell.  It is the keytones, which are the metabolic products associated with poor glycemic control. Getting one’s diabetes under control immediately is critical to treating diabetes.  The sooner that it is diagnosed the better.

#2. Heart Disease

Recent articles have revealed that patients with periodontal disease are significantly more likely to develop heart disease than people with good oral health.  Patients that treat their periodontal disease can also improve their heart disease.  What is the common thread?  Inflammation. Chronically inflamed gums are a sign that the inflammation may also be systemic.

#3.  Dementia

Research has found that people who have lost a significant number of teeth show an association with mental decline.  A study found Porphyromonas gingivalis, which is a bacteria associated with gum disease, was found in the brains of people with dementia, suggesting that it may play a role in the inflammation associated with cognitive decline.

#4.  Acid Reflux Disease

You may feel heartburn most intensely in your chest, but its effects may be most obvious in the mouth.  If you have acid reflux, the constant uprising of stomach acid could wear away at the enamel.  The signs are loss of enamel of the lingual or tongue sides of the front teeth.  Thinning and chipping teeth are a sign.  Patients also state they have a sour taste in their mouths.

#5.  Osteoporosis

X-rays at your check ups are important in diagnosing cavities and abscesses but also your bone density can be observed.  Bone that has lost its density in postmenopausal women is also correlated to lack of bone density in the spine.  Therefore your dentist may diagnose your osteoporosis before that dreaded fracture occurs.

So next time the dentist does your check up – ask them how everything else looks.
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Born and raised in San Diego, Dr. James Tasto attended University of San Diego High School where he lettered in both golf and wrestling. After earning a Bachelors in Science from Loyola Marymount University, Dr. Tasto graduated from University of Southern California Dental School with an emphasis on cosmetics and sports dentistry.  Dr. James Tasto was selected by his peers to be included in the List of Top Dentists in San Diego for 2007 – 2013.  He appeared in the May issue of San Diego Magazine.  Dr. Tasto is also a member of D.O.C.S. (Doctors Offering Charitable Services), a local organization that offers medical services such as plastic surgery, vision and dental to the less fortunate patients in San Diego.  Dr. Tasto currently resides in San Diego with his lovely wife Traci and their 3 children. He enjoys golf, beach volleyball and playing with his kids.