Health conditions in other parts of the body can impact your oral health in significant ways.
What is GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease)?
This is a chronic disease that occurs when stomach acid gets a wrong direction and flows up into the esophagus (a tube that connects stomach with the mouth), the throat and even into the mouth. Acid reflux and heartburn more than twice a week may indicate GERD.
Normally, the ring of muscles at the top of the stomach is strong and prevents acids from leaking. However, if the sphincter is not working properly, the acid can move up causing erosion on the walls of your esophagus, your mouth, gums, and teeth. This medical condition affects approximately every fifth adult in US.
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