Weight loss surgery can lead to some unexpected changes in your lifestyle and overall health. Rapid weight loss can lead to temporary hair thinning, for example. Your revised diet may take a little time to get used to. And there’s the problem of sagging skin to bear in mind when you lose a considerable amount of body weight. These are to be expected and we will discuss these issues during the consultation period at the MayClinik. Most people, even mildly aware of bariatric surgery, know that these are typical problems patients will have to face at some point in time. What shocks many people is that bariatric surgery will cause patients to have dental problems. Let’s explore the matter in more detail.
Dental Health After Bariatric Surgery
Most patients report the following dental health issues after having undergone bariatric surgery:
- Increase in Cavities: Some patients find that they develop cavities faster after surgery than they did before the surgery.
- Acidic Dental Erosion: Patients may feel an acidic pH in their mouth, which results in weakened dental enamel and exposure of the underlying dentin to the tooth.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Hot and cold temperatures, as well as pressure while biting and chewing, can cause pain and discomfort to patients.
- Brittle Teeth and Fractures: Patients may have teeth that are thinner than normal, making chips, breaks, and extreme teeth fracture more likely.
Why These Dental Problems Occur?
There are a few reasons why these complications arise after bariatric surgery. Also, combinations of these below issues are not uncommon.
- Dumping Syndrome: Eating food too fast would not only cause nausea and diarrhea. Dumping syndrome can also cause people to vomit, which increases the acidity of the mouth and weakens the teeth.
- Acid Reflux: Acid reflux can lead to a variety of problems, including increased acidity in the mouth. This can cause problems with dental enamel and an increased risk of erosion, fractures, and decay.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: It might take a little time for people to get used to their new diet. Calcium shortages at an early stage may affect the health of the teeth, which means that there is a chance of decay and other problems.
Treating These Dental Problems
When it comes to treating these dental issues, dentists may rely on restorative procedures to repair their teeth if they are harmed. When it comes to dental treatment MayClinik family here for you. As we are at your service with bariatric surgeries, we also can provide your dental treatments too whenever you will need it. This involves the use of fillings as well as crowns to protect the teeth from further damage.
Preventing Dental Problems After Bariatric Surgery
Patients should do a reasonable amount to keep these problems from happening.
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing every night is the secret to protecting your teeth and gums from damage. Since you eat more following weight loss surgery, try brushing at least three times a day and flossing at least twice a day to help avoid tooth decay and other problems.
- Take Vitamins and Nutritional Supplements: Calcium, vitamin D, and other nutritional deficiencies can be addressed by taking vitamins as directed by your bariatric surgeon.
- Improve Your Diet: If you lack certain vitamins or minerals, seek improvements to your diet that help to meet the nutritional needs you lack.
- Avoid Dumping Syndrome: Dumping syndrome can be avoided by eating slowly, smelling your food, and not overeating. Be sure to take care of these problems while you recover from your surgery.
For more information on Bariatric Surgeries and Dental Treatments, be sure to contact our trusted bariatric surgeons and maxillofacial surgeon. MayClinik family always here to help you!
