Oral health and gastroesophageal reflux: how the digestive system affects oral health

Gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD) or gastroesophageal reflux is a common digestive disease worldwide in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus due to a dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve that allows food to pass from one point to the other. In Spain, it is estimated that between 9.8% and 15% of the population suffers from this disorder, with stress, unhealthy dietary habits and family history being some of the factors that favor its appearance.

However, beyond the serious complications that this condition itself causes in the digestive system, stomach acid can also cause problems in the mouth, both in hard and soft tissues.

Effects of GERD on oral health

Constant exposure of the mouth to stomach acid can cause a number of problems in the teeth, gums and other parts of the mouth.

Dental wear

One of the most serious oral complications associated with gastroesophageal reflux is the progressive and irreversible loss of dental structure. The gastric acid that reaches the mouth gradually wears away the enamel, which, if not treated in time, eventually leads to tooth decay and tooth sensitivity. Dental erosion also ends up causing discoloration of the teeth, leaving them dull, yellow or stained, and makes them more prone to fractures.

Caries formation

The pH of the mouth decreases due to the presence of gastric acid, which alters the balance of bacteria and favors the growth of bacteria that cause cavities. If the cavities in the teeth caused by cavities are not properly treated, they can deepen and trigger infections. If the infection spreads to the gums and the bones that support the teeth, it could even lead to the loss of the affected teeth.

Bad breath

Halitosis or bad breath is also a common problem in people with GERD. When the bacterial flora of the mouth is affected by the presence of stomach acids, it favors the growth of microorganisms that produce volatile sulfur compounds, responsible for bad breath. In addition, the presence of these acids can generate a bitter or sour taste in the mouth that worsens the perception of halitosis.

Gum disease

Bacteria that cause bad breath can cause inflammation of the gums, which can lead to the development of periodontal diseases. One of these is gingivitis, which reddens the gums, causes them to swell and bleed. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced stage that affects the tissues that support the teeth.

Dry mouth

Saliva plays a great role in protecting teeth: it helps neutralize acids and slows bacterial growth, keeping the pH in the mouth balanced to avoid many of the problems mentioned above. Despite this, GERD can influence both the amount and composition of saliva, affecting its protective function.

Discover our products for daily oral care

Maintain a healthy mouth with daily care routines.

See products

Gastroesophageal reflux vulnerable groups

Everyone diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux is at risk of developing oral complications, but certain groups may be more susceptible and should pay special attention to symptoms.

Pregnant women

During pregnancy, a woman's body goes through a series of hormonal changes that, in and of themselves, affect the proper functioning of several systems, including the digestive system. For example, progesterone levels are much higher at this stage and have the ability to relax smooth muscles such as the lower esophageal sphincter. This, coupled with the pressure of the uterus on the stomach, makes them more prone to reflux.

People with obesity

Vulnerable groups also include patients with chronic diseases such as obesity. Because of the pressure that excess weight puts on the abdomen, these people are more predisposed to gastric acids rising and causing complications in the mouth. In addition, these patients often have metabolic disorders that can alter the production and composition of saliva, which facilitates bacterial growth in the mouth.

Patients with diabetes

Diabetes weakens the body's ability to heal tissues, so patients with this condition are even more at risk for infections. The oral complications triggered by GERD, in addition to those generated by diabetes itself, such as gingivitis, xerostomia or oral candidiasis, require careful attention by the patient, accompanied by the dentist and other specialists.

People with respiratory diseases

People with asthma, COPD and other chronic respiratory diseases often cough frequently and suffer from regurgitation, symptoms that make it easier for gastric acid to reach the mouth. They also tend to produce less saliva because of their breathing difficulties, worsening oral problems.

Oral care for GERD

It is recommended that patients with gastroesophageal reflux have regular check-ups to detect possible oral complications early, and it is best to involve both dentists and gastroenterologists for an interdisciplinary approach. While one treats the digestive symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, the other can offer prevention.

In episodes of vomiting, it is best not to brush until 30 minutes later so as not to spread the acid through the teeth. Instead, you can neutralize the acid by rinsing the mouth directly with water or with a specific solution that helps to eliminate the acidity. You can do these rinses even if you have not vomited, it is enough if you feel acidity in your mouth.

It is important to carry out a complete and constant oral hygiene, with fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel, as well as taking into account the Indications of specialists to control the oral pH in each case. A healthy mouth not only reduces the effects of GERD but also improves the quality of life of patients.