Gluten Sensitivity - Celiac Disease & Oral Health

Gluten is found in wheat and similar proteins such as rye and barley as well as dental and personal care products. Gluten is a difficult protein to digest. In celiac disease the immune system attacks gluten as if it were a pathogen. The small intestines can be damaged resulting in poor absorption of important nutrients. The poor absorption of iron, calcium, folic acid and vitamins A, D E and K can have many serious health problems including oral health. Sores in the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis) and ulcers (aphthous ulcers)in the mouth commonly appear. Tooth enamel defects may occur on the incisors and first molars of adult teeth. The teeth may have white, yellow or brown spots, pitting or banding of the teeth or they may have a translucent appearance. Bonding or Porcelain Veneers can be applied to the teeth to cover the enamel defects. Dentists and Dental Hygienists may be the first to observe early oral warning signs in children. Patients should be referred to a gastroenterologist. Dental products that are 100% free of gluten are Tom's of Maine and The Natural Dentist. Tom's of Maine offers toothpaste, deoderant, mouthwash, dental floss, and soap products. Drug labels can be misleading because the source of the inactive ingredients might be changed. Find out the gluten content of drugs at www.glutenfreedrugs.com. October is National Celiac Awareness Month.