Individuals with diabetes are at greater risk of certain oral health problems, including gum disease and cavities. 

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you will know that the condition can have some serious effects on your overall health. When it comes to oral health, diabetes increases one’s likelihood of developing issues such as tooth decay and gum disease, as well as infections of the gums and underlying bones. So, what should you do if you notice symptoms of these problems? And what can you do to keep your mouth as healthy as possible?

What symptoms should you look out for?

Whether you have diabetes or not, there are a few warning signs that could indicate an underlying oral health concern. If you notice that you have infections very often, or that your gums feel tender, it is important that you see your dentist as soon as possible. Other symptoms to keep an eye on include bleeding gums and persistent bad breath.

It is important that you control your diabetes as best you can in order to protect your teeth and gums from damage.

What oral health issues can diabetes contribute to?

One of the most common oral health problems with which people with diabetes struggle is gum disease. In its first stage, known as gingivitis, bacteria in the mouth cause the gums to bleed and feel sensitive. When one has uncontrolled diabetes, there tends to be more sugar in one’s saliva. This gives bacteria plenty of opportunity to produce harmful acids and form plaque that can damage the teeth and gums.

If left untreated, gingivitis can worsen into a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis. Periodontitis can lead to serious problems, including tooth loss.

Diabetes can also slow down the production of saliva and increase your risk of dry mouth. Dry mouth can be an uncomfortable problem and may increase the risk of sores and ulcers, as well as gum disease and tooth decay.

Individuals with diabetes tend to be particularly prone to infections and may also struggle with slower wound healing than usual.

How can you keep your smile healthy?

If you have diabetes, it is very important that you keep the condition under control for the sake of your general health, and the health of your smile. Speak to your doctor about how to keep your blood sugar on track if you are having trouble with this.

When it comes to taking care of your teeth and gums, it is essential that you practice proper oral hygiene on a daily basis. This includes brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled brush twice a day and flossing daily. You may also find it helpful to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash every time that you brush your teeth.

It is also advisable that you see your dentist every six months for a routine check-up and clean. This will give your dentist the opportunity to identify and treat any issues before they cause any serious problems. If your diabetes is really affecting your oral health, your dentist may suggest that you come in for more regular visits.

How can we help?

At Crown Dental Group, we understand that your oral health and overall wellness are connected. In order to enjoy optimal health, it is important that you take care of your teeth and gums. For this reason, we encourage all of our patients to come in and see us for a check-up and clean every six months or so.

These appointments are a great opportunity to discuss any health concerns that you have, and to ask us questions regarding your oral hygiene habits and techniques. Our team will provide you with all the information that you need to keep your smile in an excellent condition in the long-term.

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