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Many people know coeliac disease affects the gut—but did you know it can also impact your mouth? When your body reacts to gluten, it can lead to poor nutrient absorption,  affecting your teeth and gums. Even without stomach symptoms, signs of coeliac disease might show up in your smile. This Coeliac Awareness Month, let’s look at how the condition could affect your oral health.

Common Oral Symptoms

1. Tooth Enamel

Enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. Coeliac disease can cause defects in enamel, especially in children whose teeth are still developing. This may include white, yellow, or brown spots on the teeth, grooves or pits on the surface, and teeth that appear translucent or weak.

2. Mouth Ulcers (Canker Sores)

Mouth ulcers are often a sign of undiagnosed coeliac disease. These small sores can be painful, slow to heal, and tend to come back repeatedly. They’re usually caused by the body’s reaction to gluten and a lack of important nutrients such as iron, folate, and vitamin B12.

3. Delayed Dental Development

In children, undiagnosed coeliac disease may lead to delayed loss of baby teeth or late appearance of adult teeth. This happens because the body isn’t absorbing enough growth and development nutrients from food.

4. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

A dry mouth isn’t just annoying—it can lead to tooth decay, gum problems, and bad breath. Coeliac disease and related conditions can reduce the amount of saliva your mouth makes,  leaving it feeling dry all the time.

5. Gum Problems

Coeliac disease can lead to gum issues because your body may not get enough vitamins and minerals. This can make your gums more sensitive and easier to irritate. You might notice redness, swelling, and bleeding when you brush or sore gums. Bad breath can also be a sign of gum trouble.

Why Early Detection Matters

Sometimes, the first signs of coeliac disease show up in your mouth—and your dentist might notice them before you do. If you often have mouth sores, weak or damaged enamel, or sore, bleeding gums with no apparent reason, you should speak to your doctor.

The sooner coeliac disease is diagnosed, the sooner you can start a gluten-free diet. This helps reduce symptoms, improve how your body absorbs nutrients, and protect your teeth and gums from further damage.

6 Oral Health Tips

1. Avoiding gluten is the most important step. It helps your body heal and can reduce problems with your teeth and gums.
2. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to keep your teeth and gums clean and strong.
3. Regular check-ups can help catch any issues early and keep your mouth in shape.
4. Coeliac disease can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Speak to your doctor about checking your iron, calcium, and vitamin B12 levels—and consider supplements if needed.
5. Drink at least 8 cups of water daily to help prevent dry mouth and wash away food particles and bacteria.
6. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to freshen your breath and keep your mouth moist without irritation.

Final Thoughts

Coeliac disease doesn’t just affect your stomach—it can also impact your teeth and gums. From enamel damage to dry mouth and mouth sores, the effects can be challenging. However, you can maintain a healthy smile with a gluten-free diet, proper oral care, and regular dental check-ups. That’s where Affinity Dental comes in.

With affordable dental cover and access to quality care across South Africa, Affinity Dental makes it easier to look after your teeth — whether managing a condition like coeliac disease or wanting to stay on top of your oral health. Visit Affinity Dental to find the right dental plan for you and your family.