My child’s teeth are not developing like they should. My friend who is a nurse said to have my child’s thyroid tested. Can thyroid problems be related to one’s dental health?
Thanks, Kelly
Dear Kelly,
Our thyroid creates two main hormones called thyroxin and lio-thyronine which are critical for energy production. The thyroid affects many systems within the body so it’s vital for it to function properly. If there is a malfunction with the thyroid it can cause the teeth and jaw to under develop compared to a healthy child. Enlarged gum tissue, a lot of tooth decay, and slower tooth development can develop from hypothyroidism which is when there is a deficiency of the hormones needed for proper functioning.
Reasons the thyroid may not be functioning properly:
- Abnormality of the immune system that results in damage of the thyroid gland
- Failure of the pituitary gland to secrete thyroid stimulating hormone
- A diet is deficient in nutrients, too much sugar, and processed foods
- A lot of infections, chronic or not
- Too many environmental toxins like mercury or copper in the body
- Not enough sleep or too much stress
- Food allergies
Symptoms of a thyroid problem in younger children:
- Overweight and shortness in height is a sign that the thyroid is underactive
- Delayed development of teeth
- Protruding eyes and a puffy face
- Hair may be thin
- Dry skin
- A protruded abdomen and Umbilical Hernia
Symptoms of a thyroid problem in a older child:
- Tired all the time
- Sensitive to cold temperature
- Difficulty learning and a poor attention span
- Skin in dry and flaky
- Over sleeping or not getting enough sleep
Our best advice to you is to have your child’s thyroid tested by their physician, however make sure they perform the proper test which includes testing the free T3 and free T4 hormones because this will show a more conclusive diagnosis if something is wrong.