Understanding How Mold Can Affect The Health Of Your Gums
Changing your oral hygiene may be your first thought if you have gums that are swollen, sore, and bleeding. While poor practices can contribute to the development of these symptoms, there are other possibilities. Conversations about black mold have been common in the news, and its effects are broad-reaching. One potential consequence of a black mold infestation can be oral health concerns. The development of gingivitis-like symptoms is a common side-effect and one your dentist may miss.
Understanding How Mold Can Affect The Health Of Your Gums
Learning the life cycle of mold is necessary to understanding how mold infestations can impact your oral health. Like all fungi, black mold uses spores to reproduce. However, black mold doesn’t typically spread its spores through the air unless disturbed. Unlike many fungal spores, black mold spores tend to be sticky. They’ll remain in place even if the mold colony has dried. When the surface they’re on is disturbed, they cling to other particles in the air until settling elsewhere.
One place they can settle is in your lungs and on your gums. A condition known as bleeding lung syndrome can occur if it enters your lungs. If these mold spores should land on your gums, they can cause irritation similar to gingivitis. This irritation isn’t the only way they can impact your oral health, however.
- Dry Mouth – One symptom of being exposed to mold is congestion. When our nose and sinuses become congested, we may breathe through our mouths. This excess airflow through the mouth can result in dry mouth. Saliva plays a vital role in defending us from tooth decay. When dry mouth occurs, we are deprived of its protective effects. Dry mouth can also aggravate gum disease and cause halitosis.
- Amalgams – One little-known fact about molds is that they can consume certain metals. Mercury is one such metal they can consume and is a primary component of amalgam fillings. The dark, warm, moist interior of our mouths thus becomes a perfect breeding ground.
- Mycotoxins – In addition to the spores produced by mold, you also have to consider mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are toxic substances that our bodies react to when inhaled. Gum bleeds, nose bleeds, and even bleeding lungs can result from inhaling these substances.
These three points are the primary concerns to consider when dealing with black mold. If you suspect that your home has a black mold infestation, take action. The first step will be removing your family from the home until you can clear it. The second step involves speaking to your health professionals, including your dentist.
Seek Dental Guidance On Mold Related Oral Health Concerns
Alert your dentist as soon as you’re aware of a black mold infestation in your home. They’ll be able to provide appropriate steps to protect your oral health. Among these steps will be taking special care with your oral health routine. Black mold is a serious concern with dangerous health risks related to it. You may need to replace your toothbrushes and thoroughly sterilize any dishes (such as cups) you use as part of your routine.
