How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?

People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing oral infections or thrush. This is because high blood glucose levels allow more sugar to stick to your teeth, providing more fuel for plaque bacteria. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that impacts the body’s ability to process sugar in the blood. Sugar is the main source of fuel for the body to perform vital functions, and the brain, in particular, requires a constant supply of energy to function properly. When there isn’t enough sugar in the bloodstream to fuel the brain, a person can experience extreme fatigue, confusion, and even unconsciousness. In severe cases, diabetics can fall into a diabetic coma and could even die without immediate medical attention.

If left untreated, diabetes can also cause long-term health complications like heart disease or stroke. It’s been estimated that in 2012 about 39 million people across the United States had diabetes, with around 7 million being undiagnosed cases, according to the American Diabetes Association. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can also impact oral health. For example, prolonged high blood sugar can have a negative impact on the gums, causing inflammation, which can trigger gum disease.

Diabetes Is a Serious Problem

People with diabetes are more likely to develop serious oral health problems than people who do not have diabetes. This is because their blood sugar is poorly regulated, and this often leads to periodontal infections and other oral complications. 

The best way to prevent this is to work with a dentist who is familiar with the effects of diabetes on oral health and knows how to help diabetics prevent long-term damage to their teeth. In general, the dentist will advise diabetic patients to take extra care to maintain a good oral hygiene routine, including flossing each day and visiting the dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.

Additionally, the dentist may recommend more frequent appointments for those with uncontrolled diabetes, as these patients may be at risk of developing serious problems like gum disease or periodontal disease. Dentists can also create custom mouthguards and nightguards to protect your teeth while you sleep from chipping or cracking due to the pressure of grinding during the night. These guards can help you protect your teeth from damage as you manage the symptoms of your diabetes.

If you’re dealing with any of the symptoms of diabetes or you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, contact your dentist right away. They can help you get the treatment you need to protect your smile as well as your general health.

Schedule an appointment with McConnell Dental Care to learn more. Visit us at 263 Country Club Dr #102, Stansbury Park, UT 84074. Contact us at (435) 249-0482 or visit our website to book an appointment with us.