Diabetes And Your Oral Health

With diabetes, there are changes in blood glucose levels, delayed healing, medications used to manage diabetes, and changes in the way the body responds to infection. If you have diabetes, you are at a higher risk of experiencing oral health problems such as gum disease, dry mouth, and cavities.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection in the gums and bone that houses your teeth. Any person can get gum disease but the risk is higher for someone with diabetes. Gum disease may also make it harder for people to control their blood glucose levels.

Talk to your dentist about treatment options for gum disease.

Dry Mouth

A person with diabetes may take one or more medications to assist in managing their condition. With some medications and often when multiple medications are being taken, there is a reduction in the flow of saliva. This can lead to dry mouth. Dry mouth is uncomfortable, it can cause bad breath, a sore tongue, trouble chewing, swallowing, and even trouble talking. A denture wearer has even more trouble with dry mouth as the denture can easily cause a mouth sore if there is no saliva to “lubricate” the denture.

Sipping on water throughout the day, chewing on sugar free gum, and even a prescription medication can help with dry mouth. Talk to your dentist about a solution that might work for you.

Increased Risk of Cavities

Saliva acts as a buffer and a natural line of protection against cavities. When it is reduced, this can increase the likelihood of getting a cavity or for a cavity to worsen quickly. Frequent brushing and daily flossing, a reduction of sugar and acidic foods and drinks in the diet, and the use of fluoride to strengthen teeth will help manage this.

Diabetes can definitely change your life. It’s affects can be seen throughout your body, including your mouth. It is important to keep your body healthy, to follow the instructions and recommendations made by your primary care physician, and to visit the dentist regularly. All of these things will contribute to a healthy mouth.