Did you know that diabetes can impact more than just your blood sugar levels? It can also have a significant effect on your oral health!
When diabetes isn't well-managed, it can lead to severe periodontal disease. This type of gum disease is tricky because infections can cause blood sugar levels to rise, but with diabetes complications, the infection is even harder to control. On the bright side, successful treatment for periodontal disease can actually help improve your blood sugar control, potentially reducing the amount of medication you need!
Another common dental issue linked to diabetes is dry mouth. Without enough saliva, sugars and food particles aren't washed away as effectively, providing a breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to an increased risk of cavities, sores, and infections, especially if you smoke. Additionally, diabetes can cause elevated saliva glucose levels, which can lead to a fungal infection known as ‘thrush’ (oral candidiasis).
Managing diabetes is challenging enough without these additional oral health concerns. That's why addressing both your dental and diabetic issues is crucial. It's a win-win situation for your overall health! For more insights on this topic, check out Dr. Stagg’s book SMILE, It’s All Connected! available on Amazon (see pg. 92 for details).
Take care of your smile, because you are so worthy of a great one!
