Your oral health can warn you about early signs of high cholesterol

High cholesterol levels can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and impaired kidney function. Though there are numerous warning signs that point toward high cholesterol, most of them stay hidden. From changes in skin colour to chest pain, leg cramps, and fatigue, the signs may vary, but we dismiss most of them for other ailments. While most people think that the only way to monitor high cholesterol is through blood tests, there are other signs, such as your oral health, that can indicate cholesterol levels.

Dentists can sometimes spot the early warning signs of high cholesterol before you or your doctor do. Your oral health can serve as an indicator of potential cholesterol issues.

At first glance, it might seem like your oral health, especially the teeth and gums have little to do with cholesterol levels. However, the link lies in the circulatory system. Health issues linked to higher cholesterol such as artery blockages and reduced blood flow, can reflect on your gum health. When the gums don’t receive adequate oxygen and nutrients, they become more vulnerable to diseases.

High cholesterol can make you prone to conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gum, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is a serious gum infection that destroys the tissues and bones supporting your teeth. This can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Similarly, dry mouth is also a warning sign of high cholesterol. High cholesterol can also raise the risk of developing dry mouth, a condition where the salivary glands don't produce enough saliva. This can make it hard to chew and speak. A dry mouth also increases the risk of oral infections and tooth decay.

High cholesterol is often known as a ‘silent killer’ because of the absence of specific symptoms until it’s too late. As the symptoms only arise or take notice when it's worse, resulting in serious health issues like heart attacks or strokes.


As your oral health might provide some of the earliest indications that something is amiss, making regular dental check-ups even more essential.
(Pic courtesy: iStock)


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