Your oral health is often a reflection of your overall health. Small changes around your lips, gums, and tongue can be signs of malnutrition. These signs may seem harmless at first, but if left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems.
Let's take a look at some of the symptoms you see in your mouth and their causes.
1. Cracks in the corners of your lips
Small but tender cracks in the corners of your lips are associated with deficiencies in vitamins B12, iron, and zinc.
So, don't ignore these signs.
2. Canker sores
A mouth ulcer, or canker sore, is a condition that occurs due to frequent swelling inside the mouth. Canker sores are generally round, white, brown, or yellow in color, and red at the tip. Canker sores can appear on the cheeks, lips, the base of the tongue, and some parts of the palate. Canker sores can occur for many reasons. Accidental biting of the inside of the mouth, vitamin deficiency, low immunity, mental stress, and lack of sleep are all causes of canker sores. Canker sores can occur due to a deficiency of vitamins B12 and B6.
3. Bleeding gums
Gums can bleed for many reasons. Gums can also bleed due to a deficiency of vitamin C.
4. Burning sensation in the tongue or mouth
A burning sensation in the tongue or mouth can be easily ignored, but it can indicate a deficiency of iron or B vitamins.
5. Tooth decay, weak enamel
Intermittent or recurring tooth decay can indicate a deficiency of calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus. Even low levels of vitamin C can affect gum health.