Did you know that diabetes can impact your oral health in multiple ways? The team at Lazare Biomimetic Dentistry and Smile Design breaks down this connection.
November Is National Diabetes Month
National Diabetes Month is a time to raise awareness about diabetes and its impact on the lives of those affected. Diabetes can cause severe health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness. In the U.S., diabetes affects more than 37 million people of all ages. Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S.
Raising awareness about diabetes during American diabetes month can help educate people about the disease and its effects and encourage them to take steps to reduce their risk of developing diabetes or complications of the illness.
Oral Conditions from Diabetes
Oral health is vital to maintain whether you have diabetes or not. Those with diabetes, though, may notice these complications more than those who do not have diabetes. In particular, those with high blood sugar levels may see problems in their mouth, including:
Dry mouth;
Gum disease;
Fungal infections; and,
Tooth decay.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can cause several problems for people, especially those with diabetes. Diabetes can cause a decrease in saliva production, which, in turn, can lead to dry mouth. A dry mouth can cause difficulty swallowing, an increase in cavities and gum disease, and even bad breath. In severe cases, it can also lead to difficulty speaking.
Gum Disease
If diabetes is uncontrolled, it can cause damage to the gums, which may lead to gum disease. Gum disease occurs when the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth become infected. As mentioned above, diabetes can also cause dry mouth, leading to gum infections. Treatment for gum disease may include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotics, or surgery.
Fungal Infections
People with diabetes are more susceptible to developing fungal infections in the mouth, also known as oral thrush. The most common symptom of oral thrush is white patches on the tongue and inside of the cheeks. These patches may be painful and make eating or swallowing difficult. Other symptoms can include redness, soreness, and a burning sensation in the mouth.
If left untreated, oral thrush can spread to other body parts. In people with diabetes, this can lead to more serious problems, such as difficulty controlling blood sugar levels and an increased risk for diabetes-related complications. Treatment for oral thrush typically involves antifungal medication.
Tooth Decay
If diabetes is left untreated, it can cause severe damage to your teeth, making you more susceptible to cavities and tooth decay. When tooth decay is left untreated, it can lead to many problems. If the decay is not removed, it will continue to grow and damage the tooth. This can lead to pain, sensitivity, and tooth loss. Tooth decay can also cause infections in the mouth, which can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. In addition, tooth decay can also lead to bad breath and a change in taste.
Preventing Oral Complications
To help prevent these problems, you must control your diabetes and visit your dentist regularly. Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing your teeth daily, can also help reduce your risk of developing dental problems. If you have diabetes, be sure to tell your dentist so that they can monitor your condition closely.
Lazare Biomimetic Dentistry and Smile Design Is Here for You
If you have diabetes and oral complications, it is important to visit your dentist periodically and take steps to keep your mouth healthy. Multiple products on the market can help with this, and Lazare Biomimetic Dentistry and Smile Design can give you more information on what would work best for you.
Let us keep your oral health in check — schedule an appointment with Lazare Biomimetic Dentistry and Smile Design online or by phone today: (332) 334-8290.