Diabetes affects the whole body, but it can also increase the risk of dental disease and other symptoms that appear in the mouth. In fact, one in five cases of total tooth loss is related to diabetes.
Diabetes and the mouth: gum disease
Do you notice any bleeding when you brush or floss? That can be an early sign of gum disease. If it becomes more severe, the bone that supports the teeth can break, leading to tooth loss. Early gum disease can be reversed with proper brushing, flossing, and diet. Research has shown that gum disease can get worse if your blood sugar isn’t under control, so do your best to keep it under control.
Dry mouth
Studies have found that people with diabetes have less saliva, so you may feel parched or thirsty. (Medications and higher blood sugar levels are also causes.) But you can combat dry mouth by drinking water. You can also chew sugar-free gum and eat healthy, crunchy foods to get the saliva flowing. This is especially important because excess sugar in saliva, combined with less saliva to wash away food debris, can lead to cavities.
change in taste
Your favorite flavors may not taste as good as you remember if you have diabetes. It can be disappointing, but take the opportunity to experiment with different flavors, textures, and spices for your favorite foods. Just be careful not to add too much sugar to your food in an effort to add flavor.
Not only can this affect the quality of the diet, but it can also lead to more cavities. If you have a persistent bad taste in your mouth, see your dentist or doctor.
infections
Diabetes affects the immune system, leaving it more vulnerable to infection. A common one among people with diabetes is a fungal infection called oral thrush (thrush). The yeast thrives on the increased amount of sugar found in saliva, and it appears as a white coating that covers the tongue and the inside of the cheeks. Thrush is more common in people who wear dentures and can often leave a bad taste in the mouth. See your dentist if you think you have thrush or any other oral infection.
slow healing
Have you ever noticed a cold sore or cut in your mouth that just doesn’t seem to go away completely? This may be another way that diabetes can affect your mouth. Poor blood sugar control can prevent injuries from healing quickly and properly. If you have something in your mouth that you feel is not healing as it should, consult.
How your dentist can help you fight diabetes
Regular visits to the dentist are important. Research suggests that treating gum disease may help improve blood sugar control in patients living with diabetes, slowing the progression of the disease.
Practicing good oral hygiene and having professional deep cleanings done by your dentist can help lower your HbA1c. (This is a lab test that shows your average blood sugar level over the last three months. It shows how well you are controlling your diabetes.)
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