How Diabetes Affects Your Teeth – What Every Patient Should Know

 How Diabetes Affects Your Teeth – What Every Patient Should Know

Diabetes affects many parts of your body including mouth.

When blood sugar levels are high, it becomes easier for bacteria to grow in the mouth. This leads to:

• Inflammation of gums (Gingivitis)

• Delayed healing

• Increased risk of infection

Your gums are very sensitive to changes in blood sugar. This is why people with uncontrolled diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease.

Signs You Should Not Ignore

• Frequent bleeding gums

• Bad breath that doesn’t go away

• Teeth feeling loose

• Dry or sticky mouth

• Burning sensation in tongue or gums

If you notice any of these, visit your dentist for an evaluation. Early treatment helps prevent tooth loss.

COMMON DENTAL PROBLEMS 

• Gum Disease (Periodontitis)

• Dry Mouth

• Increased Risk of Cavities

• Oral Fungal Infection

• Slow Healing After Dental Procedures

• Burning Mouth Syndrome

Why Dental Checkups Matter More for Diabetic Patients Gum disease and diabetes influence each other in a two-way relationship: Uncontrolled diabetes → increases gum infections Gum infections → make diabetes harder to control Taking care of your gums can actually help improve blood sugar control. So regular dental care is not optional – it’s part of diabetes management. How to Protect Your Teeth if You Have Diabetes 1. Keep Your Blood Sugar Under Control Good diabetic control reduces the risk of infections drastically. 2. Brush Twice & Floss Once a Day Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect your gum tissues. 3. Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water to combat dry mouth. 4. Avoid Frequent Snacking Frequent sugar exposure → faster decay. 5. Visit Your Dentist Every 6 Months Routine cleanings help prevent gum disease from progressing. BY, DR.RENJU T GEORGE, INDIA.