The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that over 100 million Americans have been diagnosed as diabetic or pre-diabetic. Higher blood sugar levels increase a diabetic patients risk for tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.
A complication associated with diabetes is delayed healing response. This is a dental concern following oral surgery and periodontal disease therapy. It is important for the patient to closely follow post-operative instructions and contact the dental office with questions.
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is another oral health concern in diabetic patients. Dry mouth can result as a side effect of medications prescribed to treat diabetes. Tooth decay and gingivitis can be caused by dry mouth.
Things to do to treat dry mouth:
*Increase water intake.
*Stimulate saliva production by sucking on sugar-free mints or candy.
*Ask your dental hygienist or dentist about products that can help such as Biotene products, xylimelts, ACT fluoride products, and more.