Diabetes and Oral Health: What Your Dentist Sees

It’s no secret that diabetes is a health condition that must be treated because of the problems it can cause throughout the body—including in your mouth.  Consider that nearly 26 million children and adults in the U.S. who, according to the American Diabetes Association, have diabetes. Houston dentist, Dr. Meghna Dassani wants you to know the side effects diabetes can have on oral health.

When people with diabetes experience high glucose levels, those levels could also be helping bacteria thrive—causing major problems for their teeth. Some diabetics have chronic inflammation and infections in their mouths.

Because of the risk, it’s important that diabetics take extra special care of their teeth. People with diabetes have special oral are needs, so it’s vital that you share this information with your dentist.

Common dental conditions associated with diabetes are tooth decay, gum disease, saliva gland dysfunction, infection, delayed healing and more.

Everyone—especially those who have been diagnosed with diabetes, should:

• Be extra vigilant about brushing and flossing regularly
• Watch for signs or symptoms of oral disease and report them to your dentist
• Visit Dassani Dentistry regularly and tell them that you have diabetes
• Keep your blood glucose as normal as possible

Some signs and symptoms include:

• Tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Swollen gums
• Puss between the teeth when the gums are pressed
• Consistent bad breath
• Consistent bad taste in the mouth
• A bite that feels different
• Thrush
• Poor healing
• Dry mouth

For more information, give us a call to make an appointment and visit this American Diabetes Association FAQ.

About Meghna Dassani, DMD

Dr. Meghna Dassani received her initial dental training from the University of Mumbai, India, where she graduated in 1996 as Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). After working as an associate for one year, she established her own practice in Mumbai, India. She successfully operated this practice for six years prior to moving to the US. When Dr. Meghna Dassani is not in the office she is at home being a mommy to her 2 beautiful girls and enjoying time relaxing with her husband. Since opening her own practice in 2011 she doesn’t have a lot of free time but when the time allows she enjoys traveling, reading, gardening, cooking, visiting with friends and family and of course SHOPPING with a Starbucks in her hand!