Most people think of tiredness when they hear the words iron deficiency, but your mouth can also provide important clues. In fact, your dentist may be one of the first health professionals to notice signs that suggest you could be low in iron.
What is Iron Deficiency?
Iron is an essential mineral that helps your body produce healthy red blood cells and carry oxygen around the body. When iron levels are low, it can affect many tissues—including those inside your mouth.
What Are the Oral Signs?
Iron deficiency can cause several changes in the mouth, including:
- A sore, smooth or shiny tongue, often called atrophic glossitis.
- A burning sensation of the tongue or mouth.
- Cracks or soreness at the corners of the mouth, known as angular cheilitis.
- Mouth ulcers that occur more frequently.
- A pale appearance of the gums or oral tissues.
- Dry mouth in some people.
These symptoms can have other causes, so they don’t always mean you have an iron deficiency. However, they should be assessed if they persist.
Other Signs You May Notice
Iron deficiency can also cause:
- Tiredness or fatigue.
- Weakness.
- Shortness of breath.
- Headaches.
- Pale skin.
- Brittle nails.
If these symptoms occur alongside changes in your mouth, it’s worth discussing them with your GP.
How is Iron Deficiency Diagnosed?
Your dentist may recognise the oral signs, but a diagnosis is usually confirmed by your doctor with a blood test. The next step is identifying why your iron is low, as the underlying cause also needs to be treated.
Can the Mouth Recover?
Yes. Once iron levels are restored, many of the oral symptoms improve or disappear. Your dentist can also help manage any discomfort while you’re receiving treatment.
The Bottom Line
Your mouth can reveal important clues about your overall health. Persistent mouth ulcers, a sore or smooth tongue, burning sensations, or cracks at the corners of the mouth shouldn’t be ignored.
At Dural Dental Practice, we look beyond your teeth during every examination. If we notice signs that may indicate an underlying health condition such as iron deficiency, we’ll discuss our findings and, if appropriate, recommend that you see your GP for further investigation.
Looking after your oral health is an important part of looking after your overall health—and sometimes, your smile has more to say than you realise.
