Diabetes and Dental Health: What You Need to Know

Living with diabetes means taking care of your whole body, including your oral hygiene. Diabetes and dental health are closely linked and knowing this connection can help prevent future serious problems. Here are a few dental tips everyone should know about diabetes and its effect on oral health.

Why Diabetes Affects Your Teeth and Gums

Diabetes impacts the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. When blood sugar levels are high, it can weaken the body’s defenses against infection, including infections in the mouth. As a result, people with diabetes are at higher risk for several dental problems:

  • Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease): High blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the gums, lowering the body’s ability to fight bacteria. This can lead to:
    • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
    • Receding gums
    • Tooth loss if left untreated

Gum disease is more common and tends to be more severe in individuals with diabetes.

  • Dry Mouth: Diabetes can reduce saliva flow, causing dry mouth. Without enough saliva, the mouth becomes more vulnerable to:
    • Cavities
    • Bad breath
    • Mouth sores and infections
  • Oral Infections: People with diabetes are particularly prone to fungal infections, which thrives on higher sugar levels in saliva.
  • Slower Healing: Uncontrolled diabetes makes it harder for the body to heal. Simple dental procedures may take longer to recover from, and infections may be more difficult to treat if you are not meeting your targets (A1c levels <7%)

Healthy gums not only protect your teeth, they can also help improve blood sugar control. Inflammation from gum disease can make it harder to manage diabetes, creating a cycle that increases health risk. Practicing healthy dental care routines and using helpful dental tips can break that cycle.

Warning Signs to Watch For

If you have diabetes, pay attention to these symptoms:

  • Persistent bad breath
  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing
  • Loose teeth
  • Sores that don’t heal
  • Gum tenderness or swelling
  • White patches inside the mouth

If you experience any of these, schedule a dental appointment with your care team.

Essential Dental Tips for People with Diabetes

  • Keep Blood Sugar Under Control: Consistent diabetes management supports better oral health and helps your body fight bacteria. The American Diabetes Association recommends a target A1c level of <7%.
  • Brush and Floss Daily: Brush for two minutes at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day to remove plaque between teeth, and ask your dentist if additional tools might help.
  • Visit the Dentist Regularly: Aim for dental checkups at least twice a year, or more often if recommended. Always let your dentist know your medical history and diabetes targets so they can provide patient first care accordingly. Make sure to eat normally prior to your appointment and take your usual medications on schedule.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps combat dry mouth and washes away food particles and bacteria.
  • Avoid Tobacco: Smoking increases gum disease risk, especially for people with diabetes.
  • Maintain a Healthy Diet: Choose foods that support both oral and overall health, including vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit sugary snacks and drinks.

Taking Charge of Your Dental Health

At My Community Dental Centers (MCDC), we believe managing diabetes shouldn’t mean giving up a healthy smile. As a nonprofit dedicated to accessible patient first care, we offer affordable cleanings and exams, gum disease screenings, diabetes-related oral health education, and referrals when specialized care is needed.

Whether you’re visiting us for a routine check-up and dental tips or support with diabetes-related oral changes, our team provides patient first care to help you and your smile remain healthy. Wherever you are in your oral health journey, MCDC is here to help. Take charge of your dental health by scheduling an appointment with us today!