Diabetes and Your Mouth

If not well managed, diabetes can cause serious harm to various parts of your body such as the eyes, kidneys, heart, and nerves. What people don’t usually realize, is that it can cause problems in your mouth as well – yet another reason why good oral hygiene is so important.

What can happen to my mouth if I have diabetes?

• GUM DISEASE – Diabetes can put you more at risk for gum disease. When you have gum disease, chewing can become painful and even lead to loss of teeth because the gum and bone can become damaged.
• DRY MOUTH – Dry mouth (which is a common symptom of diabetes) can cause soreness, infections, ulcers, and tooth decay. A dry mouth quickly becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which can then lead to an infection. An infection can then lead to increased blood glucose levels, while your body tries to fight it off.
• THRUSH – You may also become susceptible to thrush, which is a fungal infection that causes white patches in your mouth that become very painful.

What can I do to help prevent these problems from occurring?

In addition to regular cleanings, checkups, and of course flossing and brushing twice a day, it is critical to have a good handle on your blood glucose. Your doctor will advise you as to how often you should check your blood sugar level. The frequency of testing depends whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, as well as your treatment plan.

Smoking is not good for your body in any way – but it can be even more detrimental to those with diabetes, so make it your goal to quit as soon as possible.

Take charge of your health and take the necessary preventative measures. Your future self will thank you for it!

Looking for a family dentist in Surrey? Call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry to book an appointment today: 604-593-8201.