Are Other Oral Problems Linked to Diabetes?
Dental Cavities. Young people with IDDM have no more tooth decay than
do non-diabetic children. In fact, youngsters with IDDM who are careful
about their diet and take good care of their teeth often have fewer cavities
than other children because they don't eat many foods that contain sugar.
Thrush. Thrush is an infection caused by a fungus that grows in the mouth. People with diabetes are at risk for thrush because the fungus thrives
on high glucose levels in saliva. Smoking and wearing dentures (especially
when they are worn constantly) can also lead to fungal infection. Medication
is available to treat this infection. Good diabetic control, no smoking,
and removing and cleaning dentures daily can help prevent thrush.
Dry Mouth. Dry mouth is often a symptom of undetected diabetes and can
cause more than just an uncomfortable feeling in your mouth. Dry mouth
can cause soreness, ulcers, infections, and tooth decay.
The dryness means that you don't have enough saliva, the mouth's natural
protective fluid. Saliva helps control the growth of germs that cause
tooth decay and other oral infections. Saliva washes away sticky foods
that help form plaque and strengthens teeth with minerals.
One of the major causes of dry mouth is medication. More than 400 over-the-counter
and prescription drugs, including medicines for colds, high blood pressure
or depression, can cause dry mouth. If you are taking medications, tell
your doctor or dentist if your mouth feels dry. You may be able to try
a different drug or use an "artificial saliva" to keep your
mouth moist.
Good blood glucose control can help prevent or relieve dry mouth caused
by diabetes.
Keep Your Teeth
Serious periodontal disease not only can cause tooth loss, but can also
cause changes in the shape of bone and gum tissue. The gum becomes uneven,
and dentures may not fit well. People with diabetes often have sore gums
from dentures.
If chewing with dentures is painful, you might choose foods that are
easier to chew but not right for your diet. Eating the wrong foods can
upset blood sugar control. The best way to avoid these problems is to
keep your natural teeth and gums healthy.
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