Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?

Diabetes is a disorder that affects your body's ability to process sugar (glucose) properly. This can cause blood glucose (or sugar) levels to rise higher than normal. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose enter the cells of the body to be used as energy. Without enough insulin, the body cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood, and this leads to hyperglycemia—high blood sugar. 

In addition to being linked to serious health conditions, diabetes can also affect oral health. People with diabetes are more likely to experience periodontal disease than people without the condition. This is because the same risk factors that lead to diabetes can also promote the development of gum disease: smoking and poor diet choices. Additionally, since uncontrolled blood sugar levels can interrupt wound healing, diabetics may have more difficulty controlling the progression of gum disease.

People with diabetes should visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups to help catch any gum disease as early as possible and treat it accordingly. If gum disease is diagnosed, dentists may recommend more frequent cleanings, deep cleanings called scaling and root planing, or periodontal laser treatments. These treatment options can help keep the gums healthy and prevent further tooth loss. Regular visits to the dentist are also necessary for monitoring the progress of the patient's diabetes so their treatment plan can be adjusted as needed.

Plaque is a substance that builds up on your teeth throughout the day and causes cavities if left for too long. With diabetes, the body has trouble eliminating glucose from the bloodstream, which means excess sugar remains in the saliva. As a result, there is more of an opportunity for bacteria to thrive and grow and cause infection.

Additionally, people with diabetes are also more susceptible to oral infections because they have difficulty fighting off germs that cause these conditions. A dry mouth is also a common side effect of the disease, which can result in tooth sensitivity and even tooth loss.

Since people with diabetes have a greater risk of experiencing tooth decay than those without it, those with chronic illness may benefit from rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash after finishing brushing to ensure their teeth are receiving an extra layer of protection against decay-causing acids. Limiting your intake of sugary foods and drinks, including sodas and sports drinks. These can cause cavities and increase your risk of gum disease. Visiting the dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup to keep your oral health on track.

If you want to learn more tips to maintain good oral health, visit Discount Dental at 2735 W Court St, Pasco, WA 99301. You can also reach us at (509) 212-9227.