Extreme fatigue, slight chest pain… So many symptoms which seem harmless, and which are far from making us think about our oral health. However, dental surgeon Andrej Bozic warns of subtle signs in the mouth that could explain fatigue or cause heart problems, as detailed in an article in the Daily Record.
Iron deficiency anemia is when the body lacks the iron needed to produce healthy red blood cells: it often shows up as subtle signs in the mouth, according to the surgeon.
“The mouth can be a mirror of what’s happening in the body,” Dr. Bozic explained. “When iron levels drop, reduced oxygen intake affects oral tissues, leading to visible changes.”
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Cracked mouth, pale gums…
The main oral symptoms include pale gums, a smooth or sore tongue (atrophic glossitis), and cracks at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis). “Atrophic glossitis, where the tongue appears smooth and inflamed, is one of the most prominent signs of iron deficiency,” says Dr. Bozic. “It occurs because the body lacks the hemoglobin needed to repair and maintain tissues.”
Pale gums, another common indicator, result from a reduced number of red blood cells. “Patients often don’t realize that pale gums could signal a systemic problem like anemia,” he added. “It’s something dentists spot during routine checkups.”
Angular cheilitis, or painful cracks at the corners of the mouth, is also linked to anemia. “Iron deficiency weakens the immune system, making infections more likely and these cracks persistent,” said Dr. Bozic.
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Iron deficiency must be treated quickly
It is crucial to treat iron deficiency quickly: “If left untreated, anemia can lead to serious health problems, including fatigue, heart problems and delayed healing of oral tissues. Your dentist can “Be the first to notice these subtle signs, so it’s vital to take them seriously.”
For anyone suffering from persistent oral symptoms, it is essential to see a doctor. “Don’t ignore signs like sore gums or an unusual appearance of the tongue,” warns Dr. Bozic. “We recommend additional testing to rule out anemia or other underlying conditions if we observe these signs.”
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What to eat to avoid deficiencies?
A balanced diet rich in iron is essential to prevent deficiencies. It is advisable to consume foods such as spinach, beans, red meat or fortified cereals. For vegetarians or vegans, plant-based sources of iron should be favored and supplements should be considered if necessary.
Regular visits to the dentist are also important. “Dentists don’t just take care of your teeth,” Dr. Bozic reminded. “Routine check-ups can reveal broader health concerns. Our mouths are often the first to show signs of deeper problems.”
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