According to the World Health Organization, 422 million people worldwide lived with type II diabetes in 2014. If you have diabetes, or are at risk, then you may also be at risk of periodontal disease. To know for sure, let’s explore the connection between diabetes and oral health.

Diabetes and Oral Health: What’s the Link?

Diabetes is a condition that adversely affects your body’s ability to regulate blood glucose. This condition also comes with a plethora of side effects, one of which is dry mouth. This means that you produce less saliva. Without saliva, bacteria settle in the mouth, eventually causing teeth to decay and rot.

Diabetes patients are at greater risk of developing cavities. In addition, they are also more prone to mouth soreness, ulcers, and overall poorer dental health.

That’s not all; diabetes also slows the body’s ability to heal from wounds. This may slow recovery time after a major oral surgery, such as a dental implant. Having diabetes might even make you ineligible for such treatments. You would need to speak with your endodontist to find out what your options are. Some dentists will test your blood sugar beforehand to determine whether you’re eligible for certain operations.

The Statistics

Roughly 22% of those with diabetes also have some degree of periodontal disease. In fact, if you have diabetes, you are four times more likely to develop periodontal disease than a non-diabetic.

Some researchers believe the correlation goes both ways. Just as diabetics are more likely to get gum disease, those with poor oral health are also more likely to develop diabetes.

Let Us Assist You

Visit Mukilteo Dental Arts regardless of any existing medical conditions. Our family dentists will evaluate your history and your viability for treatment. The connection between diabetes and oral health shows that dental and general health are linked.

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