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Diabetes And Oral Health

Published:
9-April-2005

The three significant problems seen in the mouth from diabetes are gum disease , saliva problems and infections. It is estimated that one-third of the population in the U.S. has diabetes...

However, only one-half of these individuals are diagnosed. Individuals with diabetes are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal disease than those who do not have diabetes.

Oral infections tend to be more severe in someone with diabetes than a non-diabetic. Diabetics who do not have good control over their blood sugar levels also have more oral health problems. These infections occur more often after puberty and in aging individuals.

What kinds of problems will you experience?

Diabetics may experience decrease in salivary flow and burning mouth or tongue. Dry mouth also may develop, causing an increased incidence of decay. Gum recession has been found to occur more frequently and more extensively in moderate-and poorly-controlled diabetic patients because plaque responds differently, creating more harmful proteins in the gums.

To prevent problems with bacterial infections in the mouth, you may need antibiotics, medicated mouth rinses and more frequent cleanings.

Diabetics are more prone to the development of gum disease ( periodontal disease ) from gingivitis that is caused by the presence of bacteria in plaque. Plaque is the white sticky film that accumulates on teeth both above and below the gum line that can harden into a rough yellow or brown deposit called tartar.

Any periodontal disease you may develop can be more severe and harder to control.

Without regular dental checkups , periodontal disease may result if gingivitis is left untreated. It can also cause inflammation and destruction of tissues surrounding and supporting teeth, gums, bone and fibers which hold the gums to the teeth. Gum infections can make it hard to control blood sugar.

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Once a gum infection starts, it can take a long time to heal. If the infection is severe, teeth can loosen or even fall out. Periodontal or gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss in adults!

Make sure to take extra good care of your mouth and have dental infections treated immediately.

Diabetics who receive good dental care and have good insulin control typically have a better chance at avoiding gum disease to help prevent tooth loss. You can do these simple things to help prevent periodontal disease:

  • Diet and exercise may be the most important changes that you can make to improve your quality of life and oral health.
  • Brush your teeth after each meal.
  • Floss daily.
  • Scra p e you r tongue with a tongue scrapper and BreathRx gel.
  • Be sure both your medical and dental care providers are aware of your medical history and periodontal status.
  • Be aware of your blood sugar levels, triglycerides and cholesterol levels and have them checked on a regular basis.
  • If your gums bleed while you are brushing your teeth or eating, or a bad taste stays in your mouth, go to the dentist. Tell him/her about any other changes you see, such as white patches, in your mouth.

What is the best time to receive dental care?

If your blood sugar is not under control, talk with both your dentist and physician about receiving elective dental care.

  • Dental procedures should be as short and as stress free as possible.
  • Make morning appointments because blood glucose levels tend to be under better control at this time of day.
  • If you have a scheduled appointment, eat and take your medications as directed.
  • Test your blood sugar level.
  • Be prepared to update your health/dental history at each visit.
  • See your doctor before scheduling treatment for periodontal disease. Have your doctor send your dentist records on your overall medical condition BEFORE treatment starts.
  • Postpone non-emergency dental procedures if your blood sugar is not in good control. However, abscesses should be treated right away.

See your dentist on a regular basis, every 3 to 4 months, for exams and cleanings. Keep him/her informed of your health status and if you have any problems controlling your blood sugar.

Know that healing time will take longer due to your diabetic condition.

(Information provided by Academy of General Dentistry and American Dietetic Association)

Source: Family Gentle Dental Care
Dr. Dan Peterson
1415 Sage Street ~ Gering, Nebraska 69341
308-436-3491