F8: The Celiac Surge: Oral Signs of a New Epidemic

At least 3 million Americans are living with Celiac disease and 97% of them are undiagnosed. Silent damage to health could occur with every meal. Dental practitioners can improve patients’ quality of life and longevity by recognizing oral signs of this devastating disease. Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder in which the immune system of genetically predisposed people mounts an attack in response to gluten, a protein found in grains and products made from grains such as processed foods, medicines, and cosmetics. This immune system response results in destruction that can affect multiple body systems. Left untreated, Celiac disease can result in serious systemic complications by injuring the small intestine and reducing its ability to absorb nutrients. In time, the damage may escalate to skin rashes, lactose intolerance, infertility, bone weakness, and nerve damage. Recognition of the oral manifestations of Celiac disease may be the key to discovering this devastating disease in patients whose symptoms are less evident. In this course, you will become familiar with the various signs and symptoms that may be pointing to this serious systemic illness. Helping patients understand that they may have gluten-related disorders could be the key to a lifetime of improved health.

Educational Objectives:

• Discover the cause, extent, and consequences of Celiac disease
• Identify sources of gluten and how gluten affects sensitive individuals
• Explore the oral manifestations of celiac disease