How Diabetes Can Complicate Your Dental Health

As if diabetes doesn’t complicate life enough. It increases your reasons for maintaining good oral health.

High blood sugar has an impact on your body. It also affects your teeth and gums.

Diabetes and your mouth

It’s estimated that over 20 million people in the United States deal with diabetes. If you’re one of them and/or know someone who is there are a few oral health connections that deserve attention.

Periodontal (gum) disease

Remember, diabetes can impact blood supply to areas of your body. Your gums are one of those locations.

Any pre-existing tooth or gum issues can increase your gum disease risk. Gingivitis is the first phase followed by periodontitis. Red, bleeding gums, tooth alignment, and chronic bad breath are symptoms to be aware of.

Worsening conditions can cause your gums and jawbone to separate from your teeth. This can lead to tooth loss.

On occasion, the combination of gum disease and diabetes can reduce your body’s ability to fight bacteria. An infection can make it difficult for you to breathe.

Dry Mouth

This dental condition creates a consistent feeling of thirst. Diabetes affects your mouth’s saliva production. In turn, this make you more vulnerable to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.

Saliva provides a cleansing effect in your mouth. It helps prevent plaque and tartar from sticking to your tooth surfaces.

Keeping your tongue and mouth moist is essential. A fluoride rinse can be prescribed to help moisturize your mouth.

Dry mouth associated with diabetes can be affected by your diet also. Caffeine, spicy or salty foods, and more can produce complications.

Overall, good dental hygiene and routine dental check-ups will help control the oral health complications associated with diabetes. Contact our Roswell dental office with your questions about how diabetes affects your dental health.

Schedule your next dental examination and teeth cleaning to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.