How Your Teeth Can Reveal Signs of GERD (and Why It Matters)

At Exceptional Dentistry, we care deeply about more than just your smile – we care about your overall health.

Did you know that your oral health can provide clues about underlying medical conditions? One condition we frequently spot signs of is GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. GERD not only affects the esophagus but can also harm your teeth and indicate other health concerns, such as sleep apnea.

Signs of GERD in Your Mouth

GERD often manifests in the mouth through acid erosion on your teeth. This type of wear has a specific appearance, which we’re trained to recognize during your dental exam. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth sensitivity, discoloration, or even loss of enamel. Enamel is an important protective outer layer of your tooth.

But GERD’s impact goes beyond your teeth. Chronic acid reflux can signal larger health issues that need attention, such as:

• Sleep Apnea: GERD and sleep apnea often go hand-in-hand, creating a cycle that can disrupt your sleep and overall health.
• Esophageal Risks: Chronic exposure to stomach acid can increase the risk of damage to the esophageal lining, including conditions like Barrett’s esophagus.
• Respiratory Problems: Acid reflux can reach the throat and lungs, causing conditions like chronic cough, asthma, or even aspiration pneumonia.
• Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Stomach acid erodes enamel, increasing susceptibility to cavities and gum issues.
• Chronic Laryngitis: Acid can irritate the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness, throat clearing, or voice changes.
• Chest Pain Mimicking Heart Issues: GERD can cause non-cardiac chest pain, sometimes mistaken for a heart attack.
• Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Prolonged reflux can lead to scarring or narrowing of the esophagus, making swallowing painful or difficult.
• Poor Sleep Quality: GERD symptoms can disrupt sleep even without a formal sleep apnea diagnosis, leading to fatigue and reduced quality of life.

Dietary Tips to Manage GERD & Protect Your Teeth

Taking steps to manage GERD can protect both your oral and overall health. Dietary changes can make a significant difference. Here are some practical tips:

Foods to Avoid:

1. Spicy Foods: Chili, hot peppers, and curry can irritate the esophagus.
2. Fatty & Fried Foods: Fatty meats, fried foods, and full-fat dairy can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and trigger reflux.
3. Citrus Fruits & Juices: Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and their juices are highly acidic.
4. Tomato-Based Products: Items like pasta sauce, ketchup, and salsa can irritate due to high acidity.
5. Carbonated Drinks: Soda, sparkling water, and beer can increase stomach pressure and trigger reflux.
6. Chocolate: Contains caffeine and theobromine, which can relax the LES.
7. Caffeinated Beverages: Coffee, tea, and energy drinks can increase reflux by relaxing the LES.
8. Mint: Peppermint and spearmint can relax the LES and worsen symptoms.
9. Alcohol: Can relax the LES and increase stomach acid production.
10. Large Meals: Overeating increases stomach pressure, leading to acid reflux.

Additional Tips:

• Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Reduces stomach pressure and the risk of reflux.
• Avoid Eating 2-3 Hours Before Bed: Allows the stomach to empty before lying down.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water throughout the day to help dilute stomach acid.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight puts pressure on the stomach and can worsen reflux.
• Consider Low-Fat Dairy or Dairy Alternatives: Some find that full-fat dairy worsens symptoms.

Why Early Detection Matters

Our goal is to catch these signs early and work alongside you and your healthcare provider to address potential health concerns. By managing GERD, you’re not only protecting your teeth but also taking proactive steps for your overall well-being.

At Exceptional Dentistry, we’re here to partner with you in maintaining your best health. If you’ve experienced symptoms like frequent heartburn, enamel erosion, or persistent discomfort, let’s discuss it at your next appointment. Together, we can safeguard your smile and your health.

Your health starts with your smile. Schedule your visit with us today!

Exceptional Dentistry provides family, cosmetic, tooth whitening, implant, and sedation dental care at 4200 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA 52002 and serves the Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Dyersville, Dubuque, IA and Galena, IL, Prairie du Chein, WI and Platteville, WI areas.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kristen Berning, or Dr. Alexia Oetken please call us at 563-556-2711 or contact us online.