Diabetes and 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 in your mouth.  Consider that nearly 26 million children and adults in the U.S. who, according to the American Diabetes Association, have diabetes. Bolivia & Oak Island dentists, Dr. Wilharm, Dr. Harrington, Dr. Miller, Dr. Hohl, & Dr. Dobransky want you to know the side effects diabetes can have on oral health.

When people with diabetes experience high glucose levels, those levels could also be helping bacteria thrive—causing major problems for their teeth. Some diabetics have chronic inflammation and infections in their mouths.

Because of the risk, it’s important that diabetics take extra special care of their teeth. People with diabetes have special oral are needs, so it’s vital that you share this information with your dentist.

Common dental conditions associated with diabetes are tooth decay, gum disease, saliva gland dysfunction, infection, delayed healing and more.

Everyone—especially those who have been diagnosed with diabetes, should:

• Be extra vigilant about brushing and flossing regularly
• Watch for signs or symptoms of oral disease and report them to your dentist
• Visit Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry® regularly and tell them that you have diabetes
• Keep your blood glucose as normal as possible

Some signs and symptoms include:

• Tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Swollen gums
• Puss between the teeth when the gums are pressed
• Consistent bad breath
• Consistent bad taste in the mouth
• A bite that feels different
• Thrush
• Poor healing
• Dry mouth

For more information, give us a call to make an appointment and visit this American Diabetes Association FAQ.