Type 2 Diabetes and Your Smile – What to Know as a Patient

About 1 in 10 adults in the U.S. has diabetes, and as many as 95 percent of those individuals have type 2 diabetes. This condition affects how your body processes sugar, but it can have so many other repercussions on your health. Being especially vigilant about your oral health with type 2 diabetes is important. Here are a few things to know about your smile, type 2 diabetes, and the unique risks you face.

High glucose levels can mean you have heightened risks of tooth decay.

If you have higher than usual blood glucose levels, the body tries to expel it in any way that it can, including through your saliva. The higher concentration of glucose in your saliva is really hard on your teeth. In fact, you can be extremely prone to problems with decay if you have type 2 diabetes and uncontrolled blood sugar levels.

You really have to pay close attention to gum health.

Gum disease is extremely common among people who have type 2 diabetes. The combination of high glucose in the saliva, a dryer mouth, and changes in blood circulation to the mouth can make your soft tissues in your mouth much more prone to inflammation and deterioration. Be sure to keep your sugar levels in check, take your medications, drink plenty of water, and monitor your gums for signs of problems.

Infections of the mouth can be more common as a diabetic.

Infection caused by either fungus or bacteria in the mouth is more common among people who have diabetes. If you have a decaying tooth, this means you can be a bit more at risk of developing an abscess. Therefore, any small lesion, injury, or point of decay should be immediately dressed by a dentist. Infections in the mouth can heighten your risks of needing to have certain teeth extracted.

Get Help Taking Care of Your Smile from a Brookeland Dentist

When you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, being vigilant about your oral health is so important. Reach out to us at Rayburn General Dentistry if you need help taking care of your smile as someone with diabetes.