Medical Articles
Diabetes and Oral Health
Dr. Smitha Bhagavathi Kandi, General Dentist at Al-Ahli Hospital
Diabetes is a metabolic disease which affects our whole body. There is a strong relation between diabetes and oral health. The oral changes are more common in uncontrolled diabetes.
The reasons for oral changes are due to:
- Weakening of immune system (defense mechanism)
- Blood vessel thickening (which reduces the blood flow to tissues)
Oral Changes in uncontrolled diabetes
- Cheilosis – the corners of the mouth become inflamed, which can lead to cracking and pain
- Dry mouth—Due to reduced salivary flow – which leads to tooth cavities
- Burning sensation
- Poor healing of oral wounds
- Thrush- Fungal infection
- Gum diseases:
- Bleeding on brushing
- Gum abscess
- Gum pockets
- Enlarged gum
- Gum polyps
- Gradual loss of teeth- bearing jaw bones and loosened teeth
How can we prevent oral problems in diabetes?
- Keep blood sugar as close to the normal level as possible by following the physician’s instructions.
- Prevent plaque buildup on teeth surface by thorough brushing and flossing. Use interdental small brush if there is a wide gap between the teeth.
- Make regular dental check-ups and do professional teeth cleaning.
- If you wear dentures remove and clean them daily.
- Avoid smoking (Gum disease is 20 times more in diabetic patients with smoking habit)
