Some early signs of diabetes - a condition that impacts how your body uses glucose - including weight loss, frequent thirst and urination are quite widely known. But there are some lesser-known signs hiding in your mouth that may go undetected. Experts say a person’s oral health says a lot about their blood sugar levels.
Discover our latest podcast
Diabetes and dental health
People with diabetes are more likely to have problems with their teeth and gums such as cavities and gum disease, the US National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) says on its website.
According to the group, when you have diabetes, it can change your saliva - a substance in the mouth that helps prevent tooth decay, by washing away food particles, fighting the acids produced by bacteria and preventing them from growing.
Diabetes and some medicines used to treat diabetes can cause the salivary glands in your mouth to make less saliva. When less saliva flows, the risk for dental cavities, gum disease, and other mouth problems increases.
Dangerously high blood sugar levels can infiltrate your saliva, resulting in plaques, tartar and gum disease. Other oral problems brought on by diabetes include:
- Bleeding, swollen or red gums
- receding gums
- loose teeth
- bad breath
- wounds that take longer than usual to heal
How dentists can help in diabetes fight
It is estimated that 4.9 million Brits have one form of diabetes or the other, The Sun reports. Those with Type 2 diabetes are at higher risk of developing these dental problems if they fail to manage the condition properly.
Speaking to the news outlet, dentist and clinical director at Bupa Dental Care, Dr Sarah Ramage says, dentists like herself can help reduce the number of diabetes cases in the country.
Gum disease is often painless in the early stages, however, so if you are diabetic, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly so they can catch any problems at an early stage.
Read more:
⋙ Dental hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can lead to these deadly diseases, expert reveals
⋙ Diabetes: This nighttime ‘feeling’ could be an early warning sign
⋙ Diabetes: This NHS diet has helped thousands of overweight people shed pounds
