Diabetes & Oral Health
In dentistry, there’s a saying that the mouth is the gateway to the body. What this means is that there’s a connection between your oral health and your overall health. Dental conditions can end up having a profound effect on the rest of your health, just like how certain health issues can present themselves as symptoms in the mouth. For example, many people may not realize that there’s a connection between diabetes and oral health. Here’s what you should know:
Oral Symptoms of Diabetes
High blood sugar, weight loss, and fatigue are all common symptoms of diabetes, but they’re not the only ones. If you have diabetes, you may also notice symptoms related to your oral health. For example: the disease can cause dry mouth, inflamed gums, and bleeding gums.
Gum Disease & Diabetes
Those who have diabetes are more susceptible to developing gum disease. Why? Because diabetes lowers someone’s resistance to infection and ability to fight bacteria. When uncontrolled diabetes causes higher blood sugar levels, it can spur bacteria growth.
The connection between gum disease and diabetes also works the other way around. Having an infection from gum disease can make your blood sugar level rise, thus affecting how difficult it is to control diabetes.
Consult Your Dentist
If you have diabetes, it’s important that you consult your dentist about what additional steps you can take to manage your oral health. With a customized plan in place, you can stay on top of things before any condition develops. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Or if you already have signs of gum disease, you can get periodontal treatment as quickly as possible before it becomes more severe.
We Have Answers to Your Questions!
Have any other questions about how diabetes might affect your or your loved one’s oral health? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Three Creek Dentistry in Derwood. Our experienced team would love to help you get the answers you’re looking for!