We all lose hair. It’s a natural part of the hair growth cycle. But for some, hair loss is more than just a few strands falling out in the shower. It’s a major problem that can lead to anxiety, depression, and even teeth problems. So, what’s the connection between hair loss and teeth? Is there one? Let’s explore the topic to find out.

What is hair loss?

Hair loss is a condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, certain medical conditions, medications, and even stress. While it is more common in men, women can also experience hair loss. There are several different types of hair loss, and each has its own causes and treatment options.

Alopecia areata is a type of hair loss that usually affects the scalp. It is thought to be an autoimmune condition, where the body's immune system attacks the hair follicles. This can cause patchy hair loss or total baldness. Treatment options for alopecia areata include steroids, immunotherapy, and light therapy.

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss. It is also known as male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness. Androgenetic alopecia is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. The most effective treatment for this type of hair loss is minoxidil (Rogaine), which is available over the counter. Finasteride (Propecia) is another option for treating androgenetic alopecia, but it requires a prescription from your doctor.

Telogen effluvium is a type of temporary hair loss that occurs when your body experiences physical or psychological stressors. This can cause your hair to enter the resting phase (telogen) prematurely and shed excessively. Once the stressful event has passed, your hair should return

What are the causes of hair loss?

There are many potential causes of hair loss, including:

-Hormonal changes (including during pregnancy or menopause)
-Nutritional deficiencies (including an insufficient intake of protein, iron, or zinc)
-Medications (including certain antidepressants, blood thinners, and beta blockers)
-Autoimmune disorders (such as alopecia areata or lupus)
-Skin conditions (such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis)
-Thyroid problems
-Stress
-Genetics

Is there a connection between hair loss and teeth?

Yes, there is a connection between hair loss and teeth. When we lose hair, we also lose the protection that it provides for our scalp. This exposes our scalp to the sun's ultraviolet rays, which can damage our skin and lead to hair loss. Our hair also provides insulation for our head, so when we lose it, we may feel colder. In addition, hair loss can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as an autoimmune disease or a vitamin deficiency.

Vitamin D deficiency triggers hair loss & dental issues

When it comes to our health, our hair and teeth are often thought of as two separate entities. However, recent research has suggested that there may be a connection between the two, specifically when it comes to vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D is essential for good health, and while we typically get most of our vitamin D from exposure to sunlight, it can also be found in certain foods and supplements. Unfortunately, many people are deficient in this important vitamin.

Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency can trigger hair loss and dental problems. In fact, one study found that nearly half of all women with hair loss were also deficient in vitamin D. Another study found that people with periodontitis (a serious form of gum disease) were more likely to be deficient in vitamin D than those without the condition.

So, if you're experiencing hair loss or dental problems, it's worth considering whether you might be lacking in vitamin D. If you think you might be deficient, speak to your doctor about getting a blood test to check your levels. You may also want to consider taking a supplement or increasing your intake of foods that are rich in vitamin D, such as salmon, eggs, and fortified milk.

How to treat hair loss?

Hair loss can be a frustrating and embarrassing problem, but it is fairly common. There are many possible causes of hair loss, including genetics, hormones, medical conditions, and medications. Fortunately, there are also many treatments available.

If you are experiencing hair loss, the first step is to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. If no medical cause is found, there are still options for treatment.

There are a number of different medications that can be used to treat hair loss. These include minoxidil (Rogaine), finasteride (Propecia), and dutasteride (Avodart). Your doctor can help you decide which medication is right for you based on your individual situation.

In addition to medication, there are also a number of lifestyle changes that can help with hair loss. These include avoiding tight hairstyles, managing stress levels, and getting enough sleep and exercise. Eating a healthy diet with plenty of protein and omega-3 fatty acids can also help promote healthy hair growth.

Stopping hair loss with good oral health

Your oral health and hygiene habits may be more important for your hair than you think. Numerous studies have found a link between poor oral health and hair loss, so keeping your mouth healthy could help prevent thinning hair or baldness.

One theory is that bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and trigger an inflammatory response that leads to hair loss. It's like a fine red wine, dentures are intrinsic to maturity. Another possibility is that the inflammation caused by periodontitis (gum disease) alters the way the body responds to testosterone, which can lead to hair loss.

Whatever the mechanism, there’s no doubt that good oral health is important for maintaining a full head of hair. So brush and floss regularly, see your dentist for regular checkups, and treat any gum disease as soon as possible. Your teeth—and your hair—will thank you!

Conclusion

There's no concrete evidence to suggest that hair loss and teeth are directly connected. However, there are a few possible explanations for why some people might experience both conditions. It could be that certain health conditions or medications lead to both hair loss and teeth problems. Or, it could be that poor oral hygiene leads to inflammation which contributes to hair loss. Another thing is that ageing is compensated by spiritual growth: survive long enough to enjoy it. Whatever the case may be, it's important to see a doctor if you're experiencing unusual hair loss or tooth problems, so they can determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Author's Bio: 

Caroline Bishop is one of the co-founders of Dental News Australia as well as Atomic Digital Marketing.