Braces versus Retainers: A Comprehensive Overveiw

How Diabetes Affects Your Oral Health

4 October 2022 by Lonnie Bryant

Diabetes is a common condition that affects people throughout Australia. Although paying attention to your oral health is important for everyone, it becomes even more so when you receive a diabetes diagnosis. Here's why.

Lower Immunity 

Your body relies on a number of defences to fight off infection. One of those defences is your white blood cells, which destroy infections. When your blood sugar is high, your white blood cells become less effective. As a result, if a dental infection develops and you're going through a period of managing your blood sugar levels, it may worsen faster than it would in someone who doesn't have diabetes. Because of this, you should see your dentist shortly after receiving your diabetes diagnosis. They can advise on any underlying oral health issues and guide you in adapting your oral health routine. 

Less Saliva

When you have diabetes you produce less saliva than usual. Sometimes this is due to the condition, but it can also occur when you take certain medications. Having saliva is important for keeping bacteria at bay. Of course, the reasons behind your dry mouth can be complex and may involve underlying dental conditions too. A dental practitioner can advise on how to make your mouth less dry. In the meantime, try decreasing the number of salty foods you eat and focus on hydrating more regularly. Factoring more water and water-rich foods into your diet can help.

More Plaque

Unfortunately, developing gum disease and more plaque can also cause problems with your blood sugar. This, in turn, can result in you finding it harder to fight infections elsewhere in your body. Your immune system is likely to struggle, and so you may find that you're prone to other infections. Your dentist can provide regular dental cleaning to lower your plaque levels, which then results in less gum disease.

They may also recommend that you switch to certain kinds of toothpaste and mouthwashes. It's also important for you to recognise the signs of gum disease. For example, bad breath and a dry mouth. If you notice such symptoms between your usual visit to your dentist, schedule an ad-hoc appointment so you can start treatment right away.

Although your doctor will play the primary role in helping you manage your diabetes, your dentist's input is important too. As they help you adapt your routine to protect your mouth, your overall health should benefit in the short and the long-term

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