Diabetes & Oral Health: What Your Dentist Sees

It’s no secret that diabetes is a health condition that must be treated because of the problems it can cause throughout the body—including your mouth.  Almost 26 million children and adults in the U.S.  suffer from diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Arlington dentist Dr. Kasey Hawkins wants you to know the side effects diabetes can have on oral health.

When diabetics experience high glucose levels, those elevated sugars can help bacteria thrive, which causes major problems for their teeth.  Because of the risks, it’s important for diabetics to take especially good care of their teeth. Some diabetics have chronic inflammation and infections in their mouths or other special oral care needs.

Common dental conditions associated with diabetes include tooth decay, gum disease, saliva gland dysfunction, infections, and delayed healing.  If you are diabetic, it is paramount that you share that information with your dentist.

Diabetics, like all other people, should be vigilant about regular brushing and flossing habits. In addition, they need to:

• Watch for signs or symptoms of oral disease and report them to Dr. Hawkins
• Visit Crown Dentistry regularly and remind the team of your diabetes each visit
• Maintain your blood glucose at normal levels whenever possible

Some dental symptoms of diabetes to look out for are:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Tender or swollen gums
• Pus between the teeth when the gums are pressed
• Consistent bad breath or taste in the mouth
• Dry mouth
• A bite that feels different
• Oral candidiasis (thrush)
• Poor healing

If you have concerns about diabetes, contact us today to make an appointment and visit this American Diabetes Association FAQ. We are here to help!

The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.