How Does Diabetes Affect Your Oral Health?

No matter what type of diabetes you have, high sugar level in the saliva or spit can cause harmful bacteria to grow inside the mouth and cause oral health issues to multiply. If your blood sugar levels are poorly controlled, you are more likely to develop serious gum disease and loose more teeth than non-diabetics. Like all infections, serious gum disease may also lead to a rise in blood sugar level making it harder to control diabetes.

Important symptoms that can be warning signs of more serious conditions:

• Pain while chewing
• Bleeding gums during brushing and ?ossing
• Frequent bad breath
• Gum, tooth or jaw pain
• Sores, irregular spots or lumps
• Red, swollen or itchy gums
• Gaps or pockets between teeth and gums

It is important to recognize these symptoms early and seek immediate treatment.

People with diabetes are at an increased risk for the following oral problems:

• Dry mouth: Less saliva in the mouth
• Thrush: Overgrowth of normally occurring fungus in the mouth
• Oral burning: Burning sensation in the mouth and/or tongue
• Slow healing: Slow or poor healing of cuts or bruises
• Gingivitis: Unhealthy or in?amed gums
• Periodontal disease: Gum disease that damages the tissues and bone that holds teeth in position

Tips to help you maintain good oral health:

• Brush at least twice a day. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and rounded edges
• Floss at least once a day. Floss in a gentle back-and-forth motion
• If you wear braces or dentures, keep them clean
• Get regular dental check-ups. Always inform your dentist/oral hygienist about your diabetes status
• Keep your blood sugar level under control
• Quit smoking and chewing tobacco

People with diabetes have special needs and your dentist, hygienist &diabetologist are equipped to cater to those needs. Keep them informed of any changes in your condition and any medication you might be taking. Postpone any non-emergency dental procedures if your blood sugar levels are high.