November is Diabetes Month – Learn About Diabetes and Your Dental Health

Diabetes and your dental health is a serious issue. A study in the American Journal of Endocrinology found that high blood glucose levels can dramatically increase plaque formation on teeth, causing cavities or gum disease. Diabetes also influences how easily bacteria penetrates into our bodies through tiny cracks between molecules. So if you have type 1 or 2 then make sure to get regular check-ups at least twice per year!

Diabetes and Dental Health

The diabetes and dental health connection is a serious issue, with diabetes influencing how easily bacteria penetrates into bodies through tiny cracks. Diabetes also influences how plaque forms on teeth, causing cavities or gum disease.

One study in the American Journal of Endocrinology found that high blood glucose levels can dramatically increase plaque formation on teeth. Researchers suggest that periodontal treatment may help lower diabetes-related complications when combined with standard diabetes treatments under close medical supervision.

Another study by researchers at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine suggests that early signs of oral changes associated with diabetes are more common in men with diabetes than women, but diabetes does not influence oral problems more in one gender over the other.

Dental Problems Associated with Diabetes

Most dental problems associated with diabetes are related to poor blood sugar control, which can lead to increased levels of lactate and pyruvate that damage cells within the body including those within the mouth.

For diabetes-related changes in the mouth, symptoms range from mild to severe and may include:

• Red or swollen gums that bleed easily
• Gums that are pulling away from teeth
• Loose teeth or teeth that are breaking up
• Sores on the tongue, inside the cheeks or lips that do not heal easily
• Burning sensation when eating hot, cold or sweet foods
• Fungal infections in the mouth, including yeast infections (thrush) appearing as white patches on red tissue in the mouth or tongue

Lifestyle Habits

Lifestyle habits also play a role in the diabetes and dental health connection.  Since diabetes can make you more susceptible to infection, it’s important to work with your doctor to prevent or control diabetes-related complications. Wound care should be taken seriously, and diabetes medications should not be stopped without doctor’s approval first.

Routine Check-Ups Especially Important for Diabetics

Your dentist can also help you avoid periodontal disease with routine check-ups twice per year. Treatment may include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) or surgery if needed. Between visits, practicing good oral hygiene including proper brushing and flossing, as well as keeping blood glucose levels within target range are vital for diabetes management and preventing dental diseases.

If your diabetes hygienist suggests that you see your dentist, or even an endodontist, for deep cleaning then don’t delay! Diabetes does not disqualify you for a healthy mouth, it just requires more care.

Schedule an Appointment and Diabetes and Dental Health Consultation Today!

Dr. Botero and her friendly team at Li’l Sunshine Smiles Dentistry are ready to help you learn how you can prevent oral health diseases in children. We are dedicated to helping you build healthy associations with children and oral health.  Call us at today at 813-576-0200 for a consultation.