November is Diabetes Awareness Month. According to the American Diabetes Association, one in three Americans is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, a serious disease that can lead to complications such as kidney disease, blindness, and amputations.
What you may not realize is, your dentist may be your first line of defense against diabetes. Dentists are sometimes the first to diagnose certain diseases, such as diabetes, because they are trained to see the effects diabetes has on teeth and gums. It’s another great reason to keep up with those routine dental visits because if diabetes is left untreated, it may affect the mouth over time:
- People with diabetes may experience a dry mouth from less production of saliva. Since saliva protects teeth, dry mouth may make the risk for cavities higher.
- Gum disease is common among dental patients with diabetes, which creates swelling, sensitivity and irritation along the gums.
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Taste buds may not function as well.
- Wounds or mouth sores may have delayed healing, which may lead to infections inside the mouth.
- Children with diabetes may have teeth erupt earlier than normal.
It’s important to maintain routine dental checkups so your dentist can look for any early signs of diabetes. Nearly 22% of those diagnosed with diabetes have gum disease, which occurs when bacteria are left alone long enough to burrow into the gums, creating inflammation and irritation. But there is good news. While dental patients with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, good dental health habits, when paired with professional deep cleanings, may help reduce a diabetic patient’s risk factors for unhealthy glucose levels.
For more information about the connection between diabetes and your oral health, CLICK HERE.
