Diabetes puts you at risk of numerous health complications, including heart disease, kidney disease and stroke. Diabetes can also increase your chances of developing mouth problems, including gum disease, infection and tooth decay. If you have diabetes, practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist often.
Gum Disease
Gum disease proves the most common mouth problem among persons with diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes put you at risk for two types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease, whereas periodontitis is advanced gum disease that can occur if gingivitis goes untreated. Diabetes lowers your body's ability to defend itself against bacteria. For this reason, you are more prone to getting plaque buildup on your teeth and under your gum line, which can eventually cause gum disease.
Infection and Decay
Having diabetes makes you susceptible to developing oral infections, including thrush. Oral infections occur when germs form a cluster in a single area of your mouth and remain there for an extended period of time. Diabetes also increases your risk for tooth decay. Most healthy individuals produce adequate amounts of saliva, which helps naturally keep their mouth clean by washing away germs. But if you have diabetes, you may suffer from dry mouth and produce insufficient levels of saliva due to high blood glucose levels. Dry mouth increases your risk of tooth decay and cavities.
Prevention: Blood Glucose Control
To prevent mouth problems, manage your blood glucose levels. Follow a healthy diabetes diet plan to help stabilize your blood sugar. Your diet should emphasize fresh fruits, non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, legumes, lean protein and low-fat dairy products. Because carbohydrates raise your blood glucose levels, monitor your intake of carbohydrate-containing foods. In general, you should consume 45 g to 60 g of carbohydrates per meal.
Prevention: Oral Care
Besides following a diabetes-friendly diet to help improve your blood sugar, lower your risk of developing mouth problems by practicing good oral care. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. It is recommended that you visit your dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings. Remind your dentist that you have diabetes, so that your treatment can be adjusted accordingly. For example, you may be put on antibiotics after a dental procedure to help prevent infection.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Basics --- Diabetes Statistics; Jan. 26, 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Diabetes --- Diabetes and Dental Care: Guide to a Healthy Mouth; May 25, 2010
- American Diabetes Association: Living With Diabetes --- More on the Mouth
- American Diabetes Association: Living With Diabetes --- Diabetes and Oral Health Problems
- American Diabetes Association: Food and Fitness --- Diabetes Meal Plans and a Healthy Diet
- American Diabetes Association: Food and Fitness --- Sugar and Desserts
