The link between Diabetes and Your Oral Health is something we can’t stress enough at Sunshine Coast Smile Centre.

Diabetes is a common disease which affects almost 1.5 million people in Australia. It is a serious condition where either not enough insulin is produced or the cells do not respond to it properly.

This results in cells not getting the fuel they need and the blood sugar level remaining high. High blood sugar levels can eventually lead to complications such as heart, kidney and eye disease.

Research has shown that diabetes can affect the health of your teeth and gums. Due to a lowered resistance to infection having poorly controlled diabetes can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Links To Diabetes and Your Oral Health

There are a number of common oral health problems that affect people with diabetes. These include:

• Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
• Tooth decay
• Fungal infections (thrush)
• Mouth ulcers
• Altered taste
• Dry mouth

To help prevent tooth and gum problems people with diabetes should:

• Follow doctor’s advice on diet and medications to keep blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible
• Brush twice daily using a fluoridated toothpaste.  This will remove bacterial plaque and help prevent gingivitis and periodontitis
• Floss at least once daily to clean between teeth
• Have regular 6 monthly examinations and hygiene appointments
• Drink plenty of water to avoid having a dry mouth
• Chew sugar free gum to stimulate saliva flow
• Quit smoking

Worried About Diabetes and Your Oral Health?

If you are worried about the link between Diabetes and Your Oral Health please call us 0n 07 55443 2800.

For your own peace of mind a consultation at Sunshine Coast Smile Centre can assess your oral health and diagnose what effects diabetes may be having on your teeth and gums.