Diabetes and Oral Health
Throughout November, we have shared information on how diabetes can affect your overall health. Although oral health may not come to mind when considering effects of diabetes, it is a concern for those with the systemic disease.
Gum Disease
According to research, diabetics who do not have their blood sugar under control are at higher risk for developing gingivitis and periodontal (gum) disease. They have a higher risk because they are more susceptible to bacterial infection since diabetes affects the integrity of the immune system, and therefore their bodies are unable to fight off the bacteria.
Consequently, having advanced forms of gum disease (like any infection) may cause blood sugar to rise, making diabetes harder to control.
Additional Oral Health Concerns
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can occur in diabetics as a side effect of medication, or if blood sugar levels are high. If enough saliva isn’t produced, it could lead to several problems including:
- Cavities
- Salivary gland infections
- Mouth sores
- Yeast infections
Oral Thrush
Diabetics are more prone to develop fungal infections such as oral thrush. Extended use of antibiotics can increase an individual’s risk of developing oral thrush. This is because antibiotics kill beneficial microorganisms that usually prevent thrush outbreaks.
Oral thrush symptoms include:
- White, cream-colored lesions
- Lesions usually found on inside of the cheeks or tongue
- Lesions may be painful or may bleed
- Can spread throughout the mouth
What You Can Do
For diabetics, controlling blood sugar levels is the best way to help maintain good oral health. In addition, it is important to have a proper daily dental hygiene routine. This should include:
- Brushing—twice a day for two minutes
- Rinsing—using mouthwash twice a day can help reduce plaque and bacteria build-up.
- Flossing—once a day to remove any particles stuck between teeth.
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