Effects of Diabetes on Mouth and Teeth: If the blood glucose level is high, it is high in saliva. The bacteria in the mouth use sugar as food. These bacteria combine with food residues in the mouth and form a sticky substance called "Dental Plaque", which can cause tooth decay, periodontal disease and (halitosis) bad breath. If the tooth is not treated, it may lead to tooth loss. Diabetes may also affect oral health:
- Lacking salivation causes dry mouth.
- Catarrhal Gingivitis.
- Mouth Infections take longer time to heal.
- Sores in the mouth that do not heal.
- Feeling pain when chewing.
- Halitosis does not go away even when brushing teeth.
Impact of Smoking on Diabetic Patient Mouth:Smoking and diabetes are a dangerous combination as smoking increases the risk of many diabetes problems.
As for oral and dental problems, smoking makes oral problems worse. Smoking increases the chances of periodontal disease, mouth and throat cancer, and fungal oral infections in a diabetic patient. Smoking also causes Stain Teeth and makes the breath smell unpleasant.
Tips for maintaining oral and dental health in a diabetic patient:
- Maintain regular dental visits for routine check-ups.
- Brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Using Dental Floss at least once a day.
- Tell your dentist about your diabetes.
- See a doctor if you notice red, swollen or bleeding gums.
- Smoking cessation as smoking increases the risk of periodontal disease and can worsen diabetes.