Get the Facts About Oral Health Problems and Diabetes

The connection between oral health problems and diabetes has gained significant attention recently. People with diabetes have a higher chance of developing periodontal (gum) disease, and being diabetic can make gum disease harder to treat and manage. If you or a loved one have diabetes, what can you do to keep your smile healthy? Penn Dental Medicine (PDM) explains what you need to know.

Understanding the Link Between Diabetes and Oral Health

Diabetes is a chronic condition when the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels. This can happen due to insufficient insulin production, resistance to insulin’s effects, or a combination of both. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream, which provides energy for bodily functions.

Complications of Diabetes

If diabetes is not well-managed, it can lead to a range of serious health complications, including heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, foot problems, and eye complications. However, the relationship between diabetes and oral health is also significant and reciprocal. Poor blood sugar control can exacerbate oral health issues, while dental problems can further complicate diabetes management.

Around 37.3 million individuals in the United States are living with diabetes, accounting for approximately 11% of the total population. And nearly 25% of those aged 50+ with diabetes experience severe tooth loss versus only 16% of nondiabetics. And adults with diabetes are 40% more likely to have untreated cavities.

Oral Health Issues Caused by Diabetes

• Impaired blood sugar control. People with diabetes often struggle to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Elevated blood glucose can impair the functioning of immune cells, reducing the body’s ability to fight off infections, including those in the gums. As a result, individuals with poorly controlled diabetes are more susceptible to periodontal infections.

• Xerostomia (dry mouth). Because it reduces saliva flow, diabetes can lead to dry mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in oral health by neutralizing acids produced by bacteria and washing away food particles. A dry mouth creates an environment where harmful bacteria thrive, increasing the risk of periodontal disease.

• Inflammation. Individuals with diabetes often have an exaggerated inflammatory response to bacterial infections. Bacteria in the mouth stimulate the body’s immune system, which can cause chronic inflammation in the gums. This persistent inflammatory response is a key factor in the progression of periodontal disease, as it can lead to tissue breakdown.

• Altered collagen metabolism. Diabetes affects the body’s collagen metabolism, which is essential for the structural integrity of gum tissue. Disruption in collagen formation can weaken gum tissues, making them more prone to infection and disease. Poor healing and regenerative ability in gum tissues can worsen the severity of periodontal conditions.

• Blood vessels change. High blood sugar levels can lead to changes in blood vessels, such as thickening of the walls, which can impair blood circulation and limit the delivery of essential nutrients and immune cells to the tissues involved in periodontal health. Poor circulation can exacerbate inflammation and complicate healing processes.

• Tooth loss. Individuals with diabetes are more likely to experience complications associated with periodontal disease, such as tooth loss.

With potential oral health complications such as these, it’s essential to visit the dentist regularly to help maintain good dental health.

5 Ways Your PDM Dentist Can Help

1. Early detection of oral health issues. Regular dental checkups allow for the early detection of these issues, enabling prompt treatment before they progress into more severe complications such as tooth loss and gum disease.
2. Gum disease management. Your PDM dentist will provide specialized cleanings, periodontal treatments, and advice on proper oral hygiene to manage and prevent gum disease, preserving oral and overall health.
3. Addressing other complications. If you are experiencing dry mouth from diabetes or oral infections, your dentist can help you manage these issues more effectively.
4. Monitoring oral health changes to help overall health. Regular dental visits enable healthcare providers to see changes in your oral health that may indicate uncontrolled blood sugar levels.
5. Customized oral care recommendations. Dentists can offer tailored advice based on your unique oral health needs and diabetes status, including recommendations for specific dental products, home care routines, brushing techniques, and dietary adjustments to help maintain optimal oral health.
6. Collaborating with other healthcare providers. For instance, diabetes and heart conditions are connected to oral health. Your dentist can collaborate with your primary care physician, cardiologist, or endocrinologist to provide comprehensive care, improving overall health outcomes.

Trust PDM With Your Dental Health and Diabetes

For individuals with diabetes, visiting the dentist regularly is more than just a routine appointment—it’s an essential part of managing overall health. By prioritizing dental care, you can help mitigate oral and overall health risks, improve your quality of life, and contribute to better diabetes management.

Make an appointment with one of our oral medicine experts by completing this form or calling 215-898-8965 today. Then, you can relax—knowing that your oral health and diabetes will receive the attention needed to enhance your overall health.