For most patients, the disorder is recognized during routine blood work or diagnosed during treatment for kidney disease, and oral symptoms of hyperparathyroidism are rare. Your mouth can show warning signs, however, and all three varieties can cause an oral growth called a "brown tumor." These mouth ulcers can be swollen and brown or red in color, and are so rare that most dentists will never see one. The Journal of International Oral Health notes that brown tumors serve as a good reminder to get all oral lesions thoroughly checked out by your dentist and doctor in case they point to an underlying condition.
Your oral health can also be endangered if any calcium problems are allowed to progress to the point of osteoporosis. Deterioration of the jawbone can cause loose teeth and painful or ill-fitting dentures. Since older women are at the greatest risk for this disease, it's important to visit your dentist regularly if you are female and have already gone through menopause.
If they are the first to spot a parathyroid problem, your dentist will refer you to a physician specializing in endocrine conditions. Frequent bone, dental and kidney exams can help detect hyperparathyroidism early on and lead to a swift and positive recovery.