How does diabetes affect oral health? The short answer is that diabetes can wreak havoc on your oral health. The longer answer? If you have diabetes, you are up to four times more likely to develop oral health issues. Why? Because diabetes is characterized by high levels of blood sugar in the blood, caused either by a lack of insulin production or a resistance to insulin. And when diabetes goes untreated, the uncontrolled glucose in your blood weakens your mouth’s defenses, making you more susceptible to various oral problems. Our team members at Country Club Dental in Flagstaff are experts on the topic of diabetes and oral health. Read on to learn more.
Oral Health Problems Associated With Diabetes
A variety of dental issues are bound to arise in an undiagnosed diabetic. In fact, periodontal disease is the sixth leading complication of diabetes. This statistic means that if you have diabetes or are at risk for diabetes, oral health issues should be on your radar. Take stock of the following symptoms, as they may also suggest more serious underlying issues:
- Dry mouth. Diabetes can impede your ability to produce saliva, causing dry mouth. Saliva is your mouth’s first defense against infection, so this increases your risk of developing infections and tooth decay.
- Lack of taste. An inability to taste your food may be a possible sign of diabetes.
- Gingivitis. Diabetic patients are at a high risk for developing gingivitis, or the first stage of gum disease (periodontal disease). Gum disease occurs when plaque buildup infects the gums, causing inflammation and bleeding.
- Periodontitis. In this advanced state of gum disease, the invasive bacteria attacks the teeth outlining the gums. Periodontitis is so severe that the inflammation can work its way to your jawbone and begin to dislocate it. It’s a stage of oral decay nobody wants to reach.
Treatment of Oral Disease in Diabetic Patients
Your dental health is an invaluable part of your overall health. After all, it’s common knowledge that diseases in your teeth or gums are linked to other parts of your body. But if you have been diagnosed with diabetes, failure to maintain good oral hygiene can have serious implications for your overall health. In addition to having a strong daily oral hygiene routine, the following treatments can help diabetic patients maintain optimal oral health:
- Cleanings and examinations. No one should forgo their twice-yearly dental cleanings—and that’s especially true if you’re a diabetic! We will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for worrisome signs, ruling out any trace of dental disease.
- Antibiotics. A mild to moderate case of gum disease may warrant the use of antibiotics. They’ll curb the risk of a more severe bacterial infection.
- Surgery. In extreme cases, surgeries can help treat—but, unfortunately, not reverse—the effects of periodontitis. Bone or soft tissue grafting or guided tissue regeneration can strengthen jaw and cheek bones.
The Dentist Could Save Your Life
Studies have shown that diabetics who pay attention to their oral health notice several benefits. Good dental health improves a diabetic’s overall glucose control. This means diabetics can not only help prevent oral issues by taking care of their teeth, but can serve their whole body as well.
Your Local Dentist in Flagstaff
Our team at Country Club Dental not only includes esteemed dentists, but is in close contact with equally esteemed periodontists and surgeons. We understand the complexities of diabetes and oral health and we know that if you have diabetes, you may feel overwhelmed. But it’s our job to provide you with the best treatment available to ensure your mouth stays as healthy as possible. Give us a call to schedule an appointment today, and we’ll happily refer you to the best periodontist available.
