If there is something wrong, going on internally, listen to you body. It’s amazing how your teeth and gums can help you recognize the warning signs with what’s going on with the rest of your body.

“Here are some conditions the possible clues dentists may be able to identify:

– Heart disease. Gums that have turned a “bright beefy red” or purple.

– Type 2 diabetes. Gums that bleed at the slightest touch although there is no plaque evident.

– Kidney disease. A sweet ammonia smell on a person’s breath.

– Acid reflux. Teeth that look worn and pitted, as if they’d been “dipped in battery acid.”

– Oral cancer. Gum tissues with white spots that last two weeks or more.

– Leukemia. Fiery-red swollen gums that just won’t heal.

– Osteoporosis. Black spots on tooth X-rays that indicate air pockets and dead bone.

– Stress. Gums that have pulled away from teeth, or teeth that themselves are fractured.

– Sleep apnea. An enlarged tongue and inflamed gums in the part of the mouth through which air passes.

– Pregnancy. Deeply swollen gums can indicate hormonal changes.

– Bulimia. Upper front teeth that are paper thin, with the enamel almost completely worn away, and teeth that hurt.”