Diabetes and oral Health

Diabetes is a disease that can affect the whole body, including your mouth. Dental care is particularly important for people with diabetes because they face a higher than normal risk of oral health problems. This is because uncontrolled diabetes impairs white blood cells, which are the body’s main defense against bacterial infections that can occur in the mouth. People with diabetes face a higher risk of dry mouth, swelling of gums/periodontitis, poor healing of oral tissues or even burning mouth and/or tongue. People with diabetes who smoke are at even a higher risk — up to 20 times more likely than nonsmokers — for the development of periodontal disease. Smoking also seems to impair blood flow to the gums — which may affect wound healing in this tissue area. Thus meticulous oral hygiene and regular check-ups with the dentist is essential for people with diabetes.