Many dentists like to say that the mouth is the gateway to the body. What this means is that your oral health is tied to your overall wellness, and some diseases elsewhere in your body may present themselves as issues in your mouth first. One of the ways we can see this strong connection between dental wellness and total body health is through the link between diabetes and oral health.

Those with diabetes are actually at an increased risk of developing dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Let’s dive into how exactly these things are related!

Ability to Fight Infection

Having diabetes makes you more vulnerable to infection. In terms of your dental health, that means that you’re not as well equipped to fight the bacteria that can lead to gum disease. Looking at the connection from the other direction, the inflammation and infection of gum disease can also cause your blood sugar to rise, making it more difficult to control diabetes. In addition to gum disease, thrush, a type of fungal infection that can occur in the mouth, is also something that those with diabetes must look out for.

Reduction in Saliva Production

Diabetes is known to cause dry mouth due to a reduction in saliva. What you may not realize is that saliva actually helps protect your teeth. Not having enough saliva can leave you at a greater risk of developing cavities.

What to Do

We’re not trying to scare anyone, but it’s important to understand the facts so you can take the necessary steps to protect your dental health. If you have diabetes, it’s crucial that you practice proper oral hygiene at home and maintain your regular dental visits so you can avoid the issues mentioned previously.

Helping You Maintain Your Oral Health in Louisville, KY

If you have more questions about the connection between diabetes and oral health, please don’t hesitate to ask us. At Middletown Commons Family Dentistry, our skilled dental team is ready to help in any way that we can. Our Louisville practice offers a comprehensive suite of services, so we’re able to create customized treatment plans based on your specific health needs. Call or email us today!