Diabetes & Oral Health

Diabetes is a serious disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, a hormone needed to convert sugar, starches, and other foods into energy.  Normally, insulin helps get sugar from the blood to the body’s cells, where it is used for energy.  When you have diabetes, your body has trouble making and/or using insulin, so your body does not get the fuel it needs, and your blood sugar stays too high.  High blood sugar sets off processes that can lead to complications, such as heart, kidney, and eye disease, or other serious problems.

Gum disease may cause blood sugar to rise.

If diabetes is left untreated, it can take a toll on your mouth as well.  Here’s how:

• Less saliva which leads to dry mouth.
• Higher risk of cavity.
• Gingivitis.
• You may have problems tasting food.
• Delayed wound healing.
• Susceptible to infections.