In addition to having to deal with the vagaries of diabetes on a daily basis, people with diabetes are also at greater risk of developing dental health problems. If you have diabetes, you need to take good care of your oral health, or risk serious potential consequences if you don’t.

People with diabetes, more at risk of dental problems?

Unfortunately, yes. It is never pleasant to know that you are more vulnerable, but recognizing the risks and acting accordingly allows you to regain some control and thus avoid the most serious consequences.

Why are people with diabetes more prone to dental problems? First, people with diabetes have a lower resistance to infections. Diabetics often have less saliva, and it will often be sweeter. The sugar in saliva being the breeding ground for bacteria, we understand better why diabetics develop more dental health problems.

Unfortunately, diabetics are often caught in a vicious cycle: they are more likely to develop dental problems. These dental problems cause blood sugar imbalance, which contributes to the aggravation of diabetes.

What are the most common dental problems in diabetics?

Here are the dental problems that we encounter most frequently in people with diabetes:

Gingivitis

Gum disease is one of the most common problems among people with diabetes.

Periodontal diseases

The risk of developing periodontitis is twice as high in people living with diabetes.

Cavities

Dental cavities are common in people with diabetes for several reasons: sweeter saliva, less saliva, and side effects of certain medications.

Dry mouth

Diabetes affects saliva production, so many people with diabetes will have drier mouths.

Oral infections (thrush)

These oral infections mainly attack people who are immunocompromised, have an iron deficiency or a diet rich in carbohydrates.

Ulcers

Lack of saliva can cause mouth ulcers to appear.

Tooth loss

Tooth loss resulting from early bone loss is 10 to 15 times greater in people with diabetes.

Prevent dental health problems for diabetics

In addition to excellent dental hygiene, people with diabetes can reduce their risk of developing certain dental problems by managing their blood sugar levels well.

Tips for people with diabetes:

Tell your dentist about your diabetes

Provide a list of your medications

Schedule more frequent visits to the dentist, even if you have no symptoms (usually every 3 to 6 months)

Allow a longer period for healing following treatment

Ensure good blood sugar control before treatment

Take any oral infection seriously

It is important to realize that diabetes and dental health are intimately linked. Talk to your dentist now!