Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not manage blood sugar levels properly. Typical early signs of diabetes include increased thirst and urination. Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, increased hunger and sores that do not heal may also occur. People with diabetes may not be aware they are also at risk of developing a number of oral health problems. These can include gum disease, dry mouth, and sores.
There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational.
Type 1
Type 1 diabetes usually develops in childhood. In this disease, the body makes little or no insulin. Insulin manages glucose (sugar) levels in the blood. When blood glucose is too high, it can cause health problems like heart disease, nerve damage, eye problems, and kidney disease, as well as problems with oral health. Type 1 diabetes is usually managed by means of administering insulin.
Type 2
Although children or teens can develop type 2 diabetes, it typically occurs in adults. It is associated with a poor diet, being overweight, or being physically active fewer than 3 times per week. Other risk factors include habits like smoking or heavy drinking of alcohol. In this form of diabetes, organs do not respond as well to insulin. Over time, the pancreas (the organ that produces insulin) slows insulin production and blood glucose levels rise. Type 2 diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be controlled by means of reducing some of the risk factors or taking medications.
Gestational
Gestational diabetes can develop during pregnancy. Risk factors include having developed gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy and being overweight. It can affect both the mother and baby. It can often be controlled with diet. Some food choices include avoiding sugar, eating 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day, and choosing whole-wheat bread products and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. Although gestational diabetes usually goes away after pregnancy, it can develop into type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes and Your Oral Health
If you have diabetes it can affect your oral health. You may notice dry mouth (which can contribute to cavities), swollen or bleeding gums, a burning sensation in the mouth, slowed wound healing, or frequent or severe oral infections.
Studies suggest that diabetes and severe gum disease (periodontitis) can each influence each other. It appears that treatment of periodontitis may improve the body’s ability to control sugar levels. Likewise, poor control of sugar levels may increase the risk of developing periodontitis.
Tips for Dental Visits
There are some things you can do to be more comfortable during your dental visit. Tell your dentist that you have diabetes, as well as any medications you are taking and how well your diabetes is controlled. Try to schedule your dental visit in the morning and make sure the appointment does not occur during your peak insulin levels. Your blood sugar levels are typically higher at this time and this scheduling may prevent a drop in your blood sugar during treatment. Eat normally before the appointment and take all of your medications.
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