Everyone should visit their dentist regularly for professional cleanings and comprehensive oral exams, but it’s especially important for those with diabetes. Diabetes can impact oral health in more ways than one, putting those with the condition at risk of serious complications if they fail to take care of their teeth, tongue, and gums. If you have diabetes, keep these oral health concerns on your radar.

3 Oral Health Concerns for People With Diabetes 

1. Gum Disease

Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, is common among those with uncontrolled diabetes because they have more sugar in their saliva. Bacteria thrive on this sugar, forming plaque in the process. Over time, this plaque can calcify to form tartar, which will irritate the gums at the base of the teeth. 

2. Thrush

Thrush is a fungal infection caused by a type of yeast. People with diabetes are more likely to develop thrush in their mouth, which can affect their overall oral health. Symptoms include painful red or white patches on the tongue and the inside of the cheeks. If left untreated, these patches can turn into open sores.

3. Dry Mouth

Saliva is essential for rinsing away food particles and bacteria that can cause tooth decay. Unfortunately, diabetes reduces saliva production, resulting in dry mouth, or what your dentist might call xerostomia. Dry mouth can cause cavities, gum disease, ulcers, and sores, so it’s essential to see your dentist regularly to keep these issues at bay.

If you have diabetes and are overdue for a dentist appointment, head to Dr. Charles Bumgardner, DMD in Lexington, SC. Dr. Bumgardner comes from a long line of compassionate healthcare professionals — his family has been providing quality dental care for families throughout the Midlands of South Carolina for nearly a century. Today, this seasoned dentist provides preventive and restorative dentistry services, and he offers it all with oral conscious sedation. To request an appointment, visit the practice online or call (803) 356-6030.