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Diabetes affects the entire body, including your mouth. When blood glucose levels are higher than normal for an extended period, it can lead to serious oral health concerns. In fact, diabetes is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Although diabetes is a chronic health condition, it can be controlled with medication and lifestyle changes. Unfortunately, people with diabetes are more susceptible to infections in the mouth because blood sugar levels can fluctuate even more quickly than normal. It is especially important for diabetic patients to practice good oral hygiene habits at home to reduce the chances of developing more serious oral health issues in the future. Patients should brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once per day. It is also recommended to rinse with an anti-cavity mouthwash to kill harmful bacteria that may be hiding below the gum line.

Visiting the dentist regularly is also essential for diabetics. Many patients may find it difficult to control their blood sugar when visiting a dentist’s office due to stress and nervousness in the dentist’s chair. This can lead to an increase in blood glucose levels if the patient does not have the proper medications on hand. In some cases, dentists may even be able to prescribe special medications to help stabilize a patient’s blood sugar level during an appointment. If this condition is left untreated for an extended period of time, it can cause irreparable damage to the gums and teeth. That is why it is incredibly important to make regular appointments to see your dentist every six months to ensure your oral health is in tip-top shape.

How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?

People with diabetes are at an increased risk for oral complications because of increased blood sugar levels. This affects the body’s ability to fight infection, which can allow bacteria to thrive in the mouth and cause gum disease and tooth decay. If diabetes is not controlled or blood sugars are constantly elevated, patients can develop dry mouth syndrome. Saliva rinses the mouth, neutralizes acids produced by plaque, and protects teeth and gums from decay. When saliva production slows or stops altogether, teeth are vulnerable to decay and cavities. A dry mouth is also associated with mouth sores, infections of the soft tissues of the mouth, and other painful symptoms.

Dentists can recommend a variety of treatments that can help prevent and manage diabetes-related conditions to preserve oral health. This includes prescription fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, xylitol gum, and special oral probiotics that help rebalance the bacterial levels in the mouth. Dentists may also recommend that people with diabetes receive professional cleanings and exams every six months to prevent problems from occurring in the first place. 

To find out more about the dental services offered at Doubletake Dental, call (801) 225-1002 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 163 N 400 W St A1, Orem, UT, 84057.