Oral health and diabetes

Patients with diabetes are more vulnerable to a number of serious oral health problems. These include dental decay, gum disease, dry mouth, poor healing, sensory issues in the oro-facial area and dental infections. Poor dental and gum health in diabetic patients have been shown to have an adverse effect on diabetic control. Patients with diabetes require regular attendance to maintain their dental health and to help protect their general wellbeing.

It is well documented that patients with diabetes suffer from more gum problems than the rest of the population. There is also a well established link between poor glycaemic control and severe gum disease. Bleeding and sore gums are some of the obvious signs however, it is important for all of us and especially those with diabetes to have our gum health checked by a dental professional regularly. Regular cleaning and assistance with keeping teeth and gums clean is necessary for routine maintenance.

The relationship between diabetes and the development of dental decay is unclear. Some types of diets recommended for diabetes can make patients more to prone to new decay if they involve frequent exposure to sugars but this is not always the case. Some patients with diabetes develop problems with their salivary glands and this can lead to dry mouth and dry mouth is a common cause of dental decay.

Oral mucosal lesions such as lichen planus (a painful condition affecting the skin on the inside of the mouth), mouth ulcers and infections such as thrush are more likely to develop in patients with diabetes. Sometimes diabetes is detected when a socket doesn't heal properly after an extraction. More unusual sensory problems associated with diabetes include burning mouth syndrome, taste disturbance and altered sensation in the mouth.

The development of an acute infection in the head and neck area is a serious event for a diabetes patient. Firstly a sore mouth can affect food intake and interfere with glycaemic control. Secondly the infection can negatively affect glycaemic control and lastly the stress of an emergency dental visit can affect glucose uptake. These are all compelling reasons why diabetic patients require a proactive preventive approach and this starts with regular maintenance and oral health checks.

If you or your child have been diagnosed with diabetes to let your dentist know so that you can work together to keep on top of looking after your oral health. Acute dental problems are undesirable and the best way to prevent acute problems is by attending for regular and frequent dental visits. Your dentist will let you know how often it is appropriate for you to attend based on your individual level of risk.


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