Explained: How Diabetes Can Impact Your Oral Health

According to a Centers for Disease Control report, an estimated 34.2 million Americans have diabetes. Also known as diabetes mellitus, this condition overpowers your immune system and causes blood sugar levels to rise. 

But, while the general effects of diabetes are well known, did you know it can also affect your oral health? 

Our dentists at Everyone’s Family Dental in Illinois and Wisconsin understand how diabetes can affect your dental and overall health. That is why we use state-of-the-art procedures and treatments to give you a beautiful, long-lasting smile.

Read on to learn how diabetes affects your dental health and how you can safeguard it.

The Connection Between Diabetes and Your Oral Health

High blood sugar is the main characteristic of diabetes. When your blood sugar level is out of control, you may experience oral health problems. 

The reason is that the rise in blood sugar levels weakens your white blood cells that are known to fight off bacterial infections in your body, including your mouth.

Here are a few symptoms that may signal a high blood sugar level:

• You generate less saliva
• Your mouth feels dry
• You may not taste the food as well as you used to
• You may notice your wounds taking longer to heal
• Your gums may start bleeding due to gingivitis
• You may develop infections inside your mouth

How to Safeguard Your Oral Health From Diabetes

You can protect your oral health from deteriorating with a combination of professional help and a solid dental care routine. 

Here’s what you should do:

• Get your blood sugar level back to normal with proper treatment, as recommended by your doctor
• Use a soft-bristled brush to brush twice a day and floss once a day
• If you use dentures, clean them every day
• Maintain a good diet and exercise regularly. Doing this helps normalize your blood sugar levels and improves your body’s ability to fend off bacteria and infections.
• Visit your dentist regularly

The bottom line is that oral health concerns caused by diabetes can occur more often and take longer to heal. So, maintaining a good oral care routine and working closely with your dentist is the best way to safeguard your oral health.

For help ensuring optimum oral health, get in touch with our dentists at Everyone’s Family Dental in Illinois and Wisconsin. Call or text us at (815) 847-9292 to schedule an appointment at any of our seven offices across Illinois or Wisconsin.