Common Dental Problems People With Diabetes Face (And How To Overcome Them)
Posted on 5/22/2023 by SRD Tuscumbia
If you have diabetes, you may already know that the condition can affect your health. What you may not know is that diabetes can also cause dental problems. The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can lead to various oral health issues.
Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent and overcome these dental problems. Below are some of the most common dental issues people with diabetes face and how to overcome them.
Dry Mouth
One common dental problem people with diabetes face is dry mouth. High blood sugar levels can cause dry mouth by reducing the amount of saliva in the mouth.
Saliva is important because it removes food particles and bacteria in the mouth. When there's not enough saliva, it can lead to bad breath and gum disease.
To overcome dry mouth, drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated. You can also chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candy to help stimulate saliva production. If your dry mouth is severe, the dentist may recommend a saliva substitute or prescribe medication to help increase saliva production.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is a fungal infection that can occur in the mouth, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. People with diabetes are more susceptible to oral thrush because of weakened immune systems and high blood sugar levels.
Symptoms of oral thrush include white or yellow patches on the tongue or inside the mouth, as well as redness and soreness. To treat oral thrush, the dentist may prescribe antifungal medication, which you can take orally or apply topically. You should also practice good oral hygiene, such as brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing at least once daily. Visit our office if you are a diabetic patient facing dental problems.
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If you have diabetes, you may already know that the condition can affect your health. What you may not know is that diabetes can also cause dental problems. The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can lead to various oral health issues.