Most people know diabetes involves their blood sugar, and many also understand the potential risks for their kidneys, their eyesight, and even their heart when they don’t manage diabetes effectively. But what a lot of people may not know is that diabetes can affect your oral health, too — in some pretty significant ways.
Fortunately, you can dramatically reduce oral health risks with a comprehensive diabetes management plan that includes regular dental checkups and other preventive care. To mark National Diabetes Month, the team at Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center reviews seven oral health problems that are more common with diabetes and helps to understand why regular dental exams are so important.
Gum disease occurs when harmful bacteria collect along your gum line, irritating your gums and pulling them away from your teeth. The resulting pockets make it easier for bacteria to travel down the tooth to the root, dramatically increasing your risk of deep infections and tooth loss.
The higher blood sugar levels associated with diabetes provide a great food source for these bacteria, making it easier for them to thrive. At the same time, diabetes increases inflammation, another common factor in gum disease.
High glucose levels feed the bacteria that cause cavities. More food means more bacteria, and more bacteria means there’s a higher likelihood that you develop tooth decay or even deeper infections that can require more invasive treatments, like root canal therapy.
Many people with diabetes produce less saliva, a condition known as dry mouth. Saliva is essential for rinsing away food particles and neutralizing harmful acids in your mouth. When saliva production declines, your risks of cavities, gum disease, and infections increase.
Elevated glucose levels alter the microenvironment inside your mouth, changing the balance that exists among the present tiny germs and yeasts. People with diabetes are more likely to develop a yeast (or fungal) infection called thrush, a sore mouth and throat, along with inflamed, irritated red or white patches inside the mouth.
High blood sugar interferes with circulation and immune function, which in turn slows down your healing processes following oral surgery, tooth extractions, and other procedures. It also makes it harder for infections to heal without complications.
When gum disease, decay, and infections combine, the risk of tooth loss increases. Diabetes can weaken the bones and other tissues that support your teeth, elevating your risk of tooth loss. What’s more, because of delays in healing, many people with diabetes aren’t good candidates for dental implants, and they may be more prone to denture irritation, too.
Diabetes affects your nerves, causing a condition called diabetic neuropathy. While most people believe neuropathy affects their limbs, it can also affect their mouth. Some people with diabetes develop a nerve-related condition called burning mouth syndrome that causes burning sensations in your tongue or other areas of your mouth or throat, even when you’re not eating or drinking anything hot.
Maintaining good oral health when you have diabetes takes a little extra effort, but the results are well worth it. By paying closer attention to your home care routine, following your diabetes management plan, and keeping those twice-yearly dental checkups, you can reduce your risk of oral health problems and improve your overall health, too.
To learn how we can help you maintain your healthy smile or to schedule your next checkup, call 248-681-8100 or request an appointment online at Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center in Waterford, Michigan, today.
