Signs of Anemia in the Mouth

Signs of Anemia in the Mouth

By Mina Levi, DDS, 07/09/2015

A person is “anemic” or has anemia when the red blood cell count is lower than normal. Anemia also occurs when your red blood cells don’t contain enough of the iron-rich protein hemoglobin, which gives blood its red hue. There are ways to tell if you are anemic without having a blood test done, and some of the signs are in your mouth! San Francisco dentist Mina Levi, DDS discusses anemia signs in the mouth in this week’s article.

If you have anemia, your body may not get an adequate supply of oxygen-rich blood. Signs of anemia in the mouth include:

• Pale tissue in the mouth due to decreased number of red blood cells
• Ulceration of oral tissues
• Smooth, beefy-red tongue with soreness (called glossitis)

Anemia can affect your health in many ways, including increasing your risk for gum disease and infections, so be sure to inform your dentist if you have anemia or if you believe you are anemic before any dental procedures. If you have questions about anemia or the signs of anemia in the mouth, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: San Francisco Dentist, anemia, anemic, anemia signs, anemia symptoms, anemia health factors, what is anemia, do I have anemia, how can I tell if I’m anemic