How does diabetes affect your dental health?

• Posted on: Oct 30 2022
• By: editor

Patients who have been diagnosed by their medical doctor with diabetes understand that this chronic condition can have a major impact on the body and your overall health. However, they may be unaware of the problems that high blood sugar can cause in your dental health and smile as well. Dental issues linked to diabetes are often preventable, so it is essential that patients  discuss it with Dr. Slepchik to fully understand the impact uncontrolled diabetes can have.

Can diabetes contribute to dental problems?

Absolutely! If you have been told you have diabetes this means you need to be prudent about monitoring your blood sugar levels to keep the body in balance and avoid the complications that can come with this condition. Diabetes is known to either cause or worsen conditions such as the following:

• Tooth loss
• Infection/periodontal disease
• Dry mouth
• Tooth decay
• Delayed healing from wounds
• Persistent bad breath/halitosis
• Saliva production
• Acids on the teeth
• The ability to fight bacteria/infection

By properly managing your condition, you can reduce these risks and have a better chance of keeping your mouth healthy.  By monitoring blood sugar levels and ensuring they are in balance, you  can keep your oral health in check–preventing many of these conditions from developing in the first place!

How can I protect my smile from diabetes?

Controlling your condition is the best defense against most oral health conditions. We encourage you to:

• Monitor blood sugar levels
• Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
• Maintain regular exercise daily
• Brush at least twice a day
• Floss at least once a day
• Rinse with bacteria-fighting mouthwash
• Schedule your dental cleaning and examination appointments according to your needs

How do I learn more about the link between diabetes and oral health?

Dr. Lenny Slepchik is an experienced, knowledgeable dentist who can help you learn how a medical situation (such as diabetes ) impacts your smile and dental health.  If you live or work in downtown Montreal and want to discuss your oral health needs, phone the office at 514-875-7971 or email [email protected] to request an appointment.

Posted in: General Dentistry