Oral Health Issues May Indicate Other Health Conditions

Good Housekeeping identified several oral health issues that may signal other health conditions. For example, chronic halitosis may be a sign of gum disease, says ADA spokesperson Dr. Sally Cram, who recommends brushing and flossing daily to help reverse early gum disease. If gums become swollen and bleed even with proper oral hygiene, the article states, this may be a sign of diabetes, warranting a trip to a dentist or physician. In another example, having prolonged tongue pain is a common early sign of oral cancer, says Dr. Cram. If the pain persists for longer than two weeks, or if any “sores, lumps or lesions” do not disappear, visiting a dentist or physician is advised.