You may have heard the phrase, “Well-controlled diabetes is the leading cause of… nothing.” But if blood sugar is consistently high, it can take a toll on both small and large blood vessels, damaging circulation and weakening blood vessel walls. This increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, nerve damage, and complications in the eyes and kidneys. It can also impact your oral health, affecting your teeth and gums.
To keep your smile healthy and strong, here are five essential things you need to know about diabetes and dental care.
High blood sugar is linked with several different problems in the mouth. It can lead to inflammation. It can also weaken white blood cells which can make it harder to fight off infection. It may also lead to dry mouth, which allows bacteria to stick more easily to your teeth and gums, leading to cavities and gum disease. Cuts or wounds may heal more slowly. When sugar levels are high in the blood, it also will be high in saliva. This leads to the growth of harmful bacteria resulting in more tooth decay and gum disease.
Gum disease is more common in people with diabetes. Signs of gum disease include swollen, bleeding or receding gums, loose or missing teeth and bad breath that doesn’t go away. If you notice a little pink in the sink when you rinse your mouth or on your dental floss, that is also a sign of gingivitis or early-stage gum disease. Keeping blood sugar in target and regular self-care and dental check-ups can keep it from advancing to periodontitis or advanced gum disease.
Keeping A1C in target is key. For most people, an A1C less than 7 should be the goal. Your doctor or healthcare provider will tell you if your goal is different. If you don’t also check your blood sugar at home with a meter (or continuous glucose monitor), that may be recommended.
Self-care reduces the risk of problems. It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day (for two minutes). Use a soft bristled brush, as a brush that is too firm may wear away the gum tissue. Make the time to floss at least once a day. This is important to keep plaque and food particles from building up between the teeth and along the gum line. Not a fan of flossing? Try a floss pick or an interdental device – a tiny brush designed to reach places a regular tooth brush can’t. Do either of these before bedtime, if you are doing it just once per day. Ask your dentist if you should be using an antibacterial mouth rinse (such as Listerine or Cepacol).
Routine dental cleanings and check-ups are important. Depending on the health of your gums, your dentist probably will recommend cleanings every three to six months. Be sure to let your dentist know of any changes in your health or medications because both can affect your oral health—such as symptoms of dry mouth. Be proactive. If you’re not sure if your dentist is checking your gums carefully – ask, “how do my gums look?” as well as, “could you please print out my most periodontal charting, so I understand my condition?” You may need to see a gum specialist called a periodontist.
While diabetes can present some additional challenges to your oral health, keeping A1C in target and regular self-care and dental exams can help reduce the risk of problems. With the right care, your teeth can last a lifetime.
The medical information on Diabetes – What To Know’s website is provided as an information resource only. The content is not in any way intended to be nor should you rely on it as a substitute for professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, advice and treatment.
