Diabetes and Your Oral Health
From Business Health Trust dental provider Delta Dental of Washington
Did you know that diabetes can take a toll on the health of your smile? Diminishing oral health can be one of the first signs of diabetes. Even if you haven’t been diagnosed with diabetes, common dental problems such as gum inflammation could potentially be an early warning sign.
Other signs and possible symptoms include:
- Diabetes and Tooth Decay: Elevated glucose in our saliva supplies more food to the cavity-causing bacteria in dental plaque.
- Diabetes and Gingivitis: Bacteria in plaque and tartar can cause swelling and bleeding along the gum line.
- Diabetes and Periodontal Disease: This condition is characterized by a loss of bone that supports the teeth. Periodontitis can contribute to spikes in blood sugar that makes diabetes more difficult to control and, in turn, gum disease harder to fight.
- Diabetes and Dry Mouth: A lack of lack of saliva in some cases may result in difficulty swallowing, trouble speaking, a burning sensation or a constant sore throat.
- Diabetes and Thrush: This causes painful red or white patches in the mouth which are made worse by smoking or high levels of sugar in your saliva.
For more information and a short video describing oral health and diabetes, check out the Delta Dental blog.
