We are proud to be a Lyme-literate dental practice! The dental-Lyme disease connection
Lyme disease is commonly associated with the bullseye-shaped rash. However, the effects of this tickborne illness transcend the skin or dermatological conditions. The symptoms and complications of Lyme can manifest as oral conditions. So, it is important to partner with a Lyme-literate dentist like Dr. Michelle Janbakhsh and our team in Gaithersburg, Maryland. With our understanding of Lyme disease and dentistry, Modern Smile Dental can support the health of your mouth and the “rest of you.”
What is Lyme disease?
This bacterial infection is most often transmitted by deer ticks. It is often called the “Great Imitator” because it can affect any organ or part of the body, and its symptoms are shared with many other diseases. It’s not uncommon for individuals with Lyme to be misdiagnosed many times before they actually get a correct diagnosis of Lyme disease. By that time, precious years may have been lost as the underlying infection has been allowed to progress without treatment.
What are the oral symptoms of Lyme disease?
Dr. Janbakhsh and our team may be on the vital frontlines of detecting this condition. With prompt detection, the disease is not allowed to progress any further. We may suspect Lyme disease during a routine “checkup.” Individuals may also come to us if they are concerned about certain symptoms. Oral or orofacial manifestations of the disease include:
- Facial and dental pain
- Facial nerve palsy (muscle weakness)
- Headaches
- TMJ (Temporomandibular) or jaw joint pain
- Pain in the chewing or masticatory muscles
- Tooth Sensitivity
It’s also important to note that symptoms of neuropathy in the orofacial area, like numbness and tingling or a sharp and burning pain, may mimic dental pain and other dental problems. So, individuals may seek out a dentist, thinking it is a tooth-oriented problem when the underlying issue is Lyme disease. As a Lyme-literate dental practice, we are aware of the potential signs and can spot the “Great Imitator” to get you on a path of treatment promptly.
Why does Lyme cause oral problems, too?
Basically, any time bacteria or spirochetes are present in an organ or system, they can wreak havoc on the affected area. So, if these disease-causing microorganisms are present in the mouth, you may notice changes in the appearance, function, and feel of these tissues.
Why should I trust Modern Smile Dental?
We are a true biological or holistic dental provider. We account for more than the health of your teeth and gums. We also see and address any connections between the mouth and other bodily systems. This shows at least partially in how we detect and address Lyme disease in our patients. With our understanding of the disease and its oral connections, we can prevent unnecessary aggressive treatments when the causative agent is not tooth related. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the importance of partnering with a Lyme-literate dental office in Gaithersburg, MD. To find out more, we encourage you to contact us at (301) 850-0376 today.
