How Diabetes Can Mess With Your Oral Health

Diabetes is a disease in which your body has trouble processing sugar in your bloodstream, which can lead to serious complications over time. According to the American Dental Association, people with diabetes are at higher risk for oral health problems than the general population. This increased risk is due to a combination of other common diabetes symptoms—such as the dry mouth and bleeding gums—and medication side effects.

A dry mouth is particularly problematic because saliva plays such an important role in protecting teeth against bacteria that can build up on or between teeth and gums. Without enough saliva to wash away bacteria, your risk of decay may increase. If left untreated, this may also increase your risk of gum disease.

Certain types of medications prescribed for diabetes can cause xerostomia as well. These include steroid drugs, antihistamines, and high blood pressure medications. Artificial sweeteners in dietetic foods may also have a negative impact on salivary gland functions.

What Is Essential For Oral Health During Diabetes?

When you have diabetes, it’s important to practice excellent oral hygiene at home by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. You should also be visiting your dentist on a regular basis for professional care. This is because diabetics are more susceptible to developing gum disease, cavities, dry mouth, and other common tooth problems. In addition, untreated oral health issues can exacerbate your blood sugar and cause real health problems like heart disease and stroke. 

Potential Complications of Untreated Diabetes

Gum disease is one of the most common and destructive complications of poorly controlled diabetes. Because diabetics are at an increased risk for infections, they are at greater risk for developing gum disease and periodontitis. Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by bacteria in the mouth that can spread through the body to cause other health problems such as heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, osteoporosis, liver disease, and dementia.

Diabetics are also at a greater risk for dry mouth, which makes it difficult for them to keep their teeth clean. A dry mouth increases the risk of tooth decay and makes the mouth more vulnerable to infection. Smoking is also another factor that can increase the risk of oral health problems for diabetics. Cigarette use causes more plaque to develop on the teeth, which increases the rate of tooth decay. It can also make it harder to heal from oral surgery and increases the risk of oral cancers.

Experience exceptional dental care at Parklane Family Dental, with locations in Creekmore Park (3200 Rogers Avenue, Suite 111, Phone: 479-782-0080), Central Mall (5111 Rogers Avenue, Suite 207, Phone: 479-484-0777), Springdale (617 E Emma, Phone: 479-379-6300), and Rogers (5204 W Village Parkway, #17, Phone: 479-273-0004). Our dedicated team is ready to provide top-quality services tailored to your needs. Call the location nearest you today to schedule your appointment!