Diabetes is tough on the body in more ways than most people realize. Gum disease and diabetes can impact one another, so keeping both under control is important. A number of oral health issues may pop-up, such as dry mouth and infections like thrush. Understanding the link between oral health and overall health is particularly crucial for diabetics since one gives clues to the state of the other. Drs. Scott and Michelle Weninger care for the whole patient. Be sure to ask how you can do your part to keep your mouth healthy.
Back to the Basics — Saliva
Glucose is found in saliva. Remember, bacteria need glucose to thrive. Uncontrolled diabetes leads to high glucose levels in the saliva, which in turn lead to more harmful bacteria. Bacteria find the food particles on and between teeth where they are not easily rinsed away. The plaque that forms may cause tooth decay, gum disease, or bad breath.
Dry Mouth — What’s the Big Deal?
Most diabetics experience an almost constant thirst and dry mouth. As strange as it sounds, this dry mouth is not caused by thirst. It is caused by a lack of saliva. Diabetes cuts down saliva production, which leaves teeth and gums vulnerable. When dry mouth and increased levels of glucose happen in the blood, it leaves you susceptible to a fungal infection called thrush. Without enough saliva to maintain proper balance in the mouth, your tongue and mouth get dry and chapped. If left untreated, dry mouth can make it difficult to chew, swallow, and even talk.
Combat Dry Mouth
Stimulate saliva flow without affecting blood-glucose levels by using sugar-free gum, mints, or hard candies. Drs. Michelle and Scott may prescribe a special mouth rinse to help you maintain moisture levels and battle excess bacteria. They also recommend you avoid caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol, all of which can make dry mouth worse. Limit spicy and salty foods for the same reason.
Gum Disease — Does Diabetes Put Me at Risk?
Unfortunately, yes, diabetes does increase the chance of getting periodontal (gum) disease. Less saliva means more bacteria stay long enough to form plaque and tartar. At the same time, saliva that has a higher concentration of glucose gives more fuel to the bad bacteria already present in your mouth. This leads to an increase in tooth decay and gum disease.
When left untreated, gum disease can weaken the bone structure, which can cause eating problems and tooth loss. Not only can gum disease wreak havoc on the gums and teeth, but the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect heart health. Diabetes reduces the blood supply to the gums. This decreases the body’s ability to fight off infection. It’s a catch-22. Diabetes makes it take longer for the mouth to heal. Periodontitis (severe gum disease) raises blood sugar and makes diabetes hard to manage.
I’m Diabetic — What Can I Do for my Oral Health?
- Brush at least twice a day, floss, and rinse with a fluoride mouthwash.
- Monitor your diet to control blood glucose.
- Check your mouth for changes or problems.
- Visit the dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and cleanings.
- Let your dentist know if your dentures stop fitting right.
- Quit smoking.
Weninger Dentistry specializes in caring for the whole patient. Our team is ready to discuss and treat oral issues related to diabetes. Contact us today to learn how you can balance diabetes and your dental health.