Celiac Disease and Your Child’s Dental Health

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease, which causes an intolerance to gluten. When those who suffer from celiac disease consume gluten, their bodies don’t properly absorb the gluten, which damages the small intestines. While most symptoms of celiac disease are found in the intestinal tract, there are a few surprising ways that celiac disease impacts dental health.

Impact of Celiac Disease on Dental Health

According to a study done by the European Journal of Internal Medicine, around 85% of those suffering from celiac disease have significant damage to their tooth enamel. This is due to the same immune response that damages the small intestines. This immune response causes an inability to absorb Vitamin D, which is vital to the formation of strong teeth and bones. When tooth enamel is weakened, the teeth become vulnerable to dental cavities and tooth decay.

Gluten consumption is those with celiac disease can also cause the following dental problems:

• Canker sores
• Pitting of the teeth
• Tooth discoloration
• Misshapen or abnormal teeth
• Excessive mucus production

Since many of these problems are not reversible, it’s important for celiac disease sufferers to avoid gluten completely. It’s also vital to practice good at-home oral hygiene like brushing twice a day and flossing daily, as well as visiting your general dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and a checkup.

If your child suffers from a gluten sensitivity or is exhibiting any of the symptoms described above, please visit your family dentist. For an orthodontic evaluation, please call Lockett Orthodontics located here in Colorado Springs, Colorado.