Your mouth isn’t isolated from the rest of your body. Dentists are trained to recognize oral signs that may point to systemic conditions. According to Dr. Antani, conditions like oral cancer, autoimmune disorders (like Sjögren’s syndrome), and even heart disease can present symptoms during a dental exam.
In some cases, subtle oral changes like gum inflammation, erosion, or unusual mouth sores may be linked to underlying health conditions such as diabetes, digestive disorders, or chronic stress. Dentists also screen for signs of sleep apnea and TMJ disorders, which can affect everything from your sleep quality to your cardiovascular health.
So, how is it that a dentist can notice issues even a medical doctor might miss?
“It’s the frequency and the face time,” says Dr. Antani. Most people visit their dentist every six months — more often than they see their primary care physician. During those visits, dentists not only examine the teeth and gums but also update the patient’s health history, check vitals, and evaluate new symptoms.
This frequent and thorough interaction gives dentists a front-row seat to your evolving health.
You might think bleeding gums or morning headaches are no big deal — but they could be early warning signs.
Here are symptoms Dr. Antani says you should never ignore:
- Persistent jaw or tooth pain
- Bleeding gums
- Chronic fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Mouth sores that don’t heal
These could indicate infection, grinding from sleep apnea, or even early signs of cancer.
Many dental problems — and even systemic issues — don’t cause pain until it’s too late. Small cavities may not hurt until they reach the nerve. Early-stage oral cancer might be painless but potentially life-threatening if ignored.
“Things don’t hurt until they get really bad,” Dr. Antani says. That’s why preventive visits are key.
At Napa Family Dental in Albuquerque, Dr. Antani and his team focus on a comprehensive, compassionate approach. They specialize in sedation dentistry for anxious patients and offer screenings for TMJ and sleep apnea. With a small, close-knit team, they deliver personal, one-on-one care in a comfortable setting.
Your mouth may be trying to tell you more than you think. Whether it’s fatigue, discomfort, or bleeding gums — a trip to the dentist could be your first line of defense against a serious medical issue. Don’t put it off. Your oral health may be the key to protecting your overall wellness.
