There are 5 ways that Diabetes can affect your mouth & oral health: Gum Disease, dry mouth, change in taste, infections and slow healing time.
Diabetes takes a toll on your entire body, but it can also increase your risk of dental disease and other symptoms that show up in your mouth. In fact, one in five cases of total tooth loss is linked to diabetes.
The good news is that you can take charge of your health today. Controlling your blood sugar, brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist regularly can go a long way to help decrease the likelihood of developing these diabetes related mouth issues.
Gum Disease
Notice some bleeding when you brush or floss? If it bleeds, it needs. This is an early sign of gum disease & infection. If it becomes more severe, the bone that supports the teeth can break down, leading to tooth loss. Research has shown can worsen if your blood sugar is not under control, so do your best to keep it in check.
Dry Mouth
Studies have found people with diabetes have less saliva, so you might find yourself feeling extra thirsty or parched. (Medication and higher blood sugar levels are also causes). Fight dry mouth by drinking lots of water. Sugarless gum, crunchy foods and a healthy diest also gets saliva flowing. This is especially important because extra sugar in your saliva, combined with less saliva to was away the foods that you eat, can lead to cavities.
Infections
Diabetes affects your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to infection. Be sure to maintain a healthy diet, good home hygiene care by brushin & flossing and coming to your regularly scheduled dental appointments.
If you think that you may need to be monitored, please contact your doctor as soon as possible. You may also research these great websites regarding diabetes.
