How Diabetes Affects Your Dental Health

Posted October 16, 2017.

If you have diabetes, you’re not alone. 29.1 million people, or 9.3% of the U.S. population, have been diagnosed. In addition, it is estimated that 8.1 million people have diabetes and don’t know it yet. But what does diabetes have to do with your dental health?

All parts of your body are connected, and each part affects the other. Diabetes is all about how your body processes sugar, which is an integral force in all parts of the body. There is, in particular, a strong statistical link to diabetes and the decreased health of your mouth

A side effect of diabetes is dry mouth, which occurs when your salivary glands don’t produce as much saliva as you need. Saliva plays an essential role in washing away food particles and bacteria. A deficiency greatly increases your risk of tooth decay and cavities.

Diabetes is also linked to gum disease, affecting almost 22% of those diagnosed. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your teeth and helps it multiply. If you have poor blood sugar control, bad bacteria more easily make a home in your gums. Gum disease can also in turn cause your blood sugar to increase so that your diabetes is more difficult to manage.

What can you do to build and maintain a healthy body and mouth? One thing to do is visit Dr. Steven Sachs regularly. If you have gingivitis or gum disease, your diabetes will best be served if it is treated as soon as possible. If you don’t, Dr. Steven Sachs and our staff can help you prevent it from occurring. Also, practice daily oral hygiene: brush twice and floss once every day. It is vital that you have a healthy diet and exercise regularly. If you smoke, quit as soon as possible. In general, try to revamp your daily body care efforts.

Sachs Family Dental in Orem, Utah is here to help! If you need to make an appointment, don’t hesitate to call us at 801-225-4701. We want to help guard your smile against any dental threats.