Many people with diabetes know that it can affect their heart, kidneys, eyes, and other parts of the body, but diabetes can also play an important role in their oral health. Unmanaged blood sugars can cause those with diabetes to be more prone to developing periodontal disease, which can lead to mouth pain, bleeding gums, and tooth loss. Why? Let’s take a deeper dive as to why people with diabetes are more prone to periodontal disease.
If blood sugars are not managed, it leads to a higher amount of glucose (sugar) floating around in mouth fluids. This promotes growth of bacteria that can cause gum disease. Signs and symptoms to look for are less saliva, bleeding gums, problems tasting food, and delayed wound healing. Saliva helps to protect your teeth. So, if there is less saliva, you are more susceptible to developing cavities. Though having periodontal disease makes it harder to control blood sugars, there are ways to protect your teeth and gums.
Regular dental exams are important. Practicing good oral hygiene and regular deep cleanings can help lower A1c, which a test that measures the average amount of blood sugar levels in your body over a three-month period. Eating a healthier diet that includes vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains can also help lower blood sugar levels and improve dental health. Your doctor may also prescribe an oral mouth rinse to fight off infections.
For those with diabetes, the key to a healthy mouth is to control blood sugar levels. Be proactive by regularly checking blood sugar levels and work closely with your doctor to manage your diabetes health.
Resources:
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/diabetes
https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/diabetes/more-info
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