Diabetes and common oral health problems
The most common oral health problems affecting people with diabetes are:
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Gum abscesses
- Poor healing of oral wounds
- Tooth decay
- Fungal infections, such as thrush (also known as candidiasis)
- Lichen planus (an inflammatory, autoimmune skin condition)
- Mouth ulcers
- taste disturbances
- A dry, burning mouth due to low saliva levels.
Keep Your Mouth Healthy and Happy
Treating gum disease may be able to help lower your blood sugar over time.
Regular dental visits are important to prevent problems. Follow your diabetes care schedule. Keep regular dental visits for professional cleanings, X-rays, and check-ups. Ask your dentist how often you should have your teeth checked.
Here are a few more important tips:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth at least once a day. Use a water flosser and mouthwash.
- Tell your dentist if you have diabetes.
- If your gums are red, swollen, or bleed easily, see your dentist. These may be signs of gum disease. Other signs include dry mouth, loose teeth, or mouth pain.
- Quit Smoking; as smoking increases your risk of gum disease and can worsen your diabetes.
- Follow your doctor’s advice about diet and medication to keep your blood glucose levels as close to the target levels as possible.
- Avoid having a dry mouth – drink plenty of water and chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow.
Keep that smile on your face, though! By managing your diabetes, you manage not only your blood sugar but also help to prevent gum disease and other infections in your mouth.