Your oral health could be the first warning sign that you have diabetes. In one study, dentists were able to correctly diagnose nearly 75% of diabetes patients by only a dental exam.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
You probably don’t associate dental problems with diabetes, but surprisingly, there can be a connection. People with diabetes are at higher risk of everything from cavities to infections.
Uncontrolled diabetes causes the body to produce less saliva, which makes it harder to rinse away food and bacteria.
Also, extra sugar in the mouth feeds bacteria, increasing the odds of infections.
Proper dental care can help prevent these problems, which is why it’s especially important to see your dentist at least every six months if you have diabetes.
The same goes for brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and flossing. Keep an eye out for bleeding or receding gums, tooth pain and red and white patches on your gums.
If you have these or other symptoms, let your dentist or doctor know right away.
Finally, check your blood sugar regularly. Poor glucose control can make dental infections harder to fight.
At the same time, infections and other problems in your mouth can make controlling your blood sugar harder, but keeping your mouth trouble-free can help you better manage your diabetes, and that’s something to smile about.