DIABETES How diabetes can/will affect your oral health Why your mouth is dry; and how that will affect your mouth Root caries What we can do

ORAL HEALTH “The most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are: tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, salivary gland dysfunction, fungal infections, lichen planus and lichenoid reactions (inflammatory skin disease), infection and delayed healing, taste impairment.”- “…“periodontitis” (which means “inflammation around the tooth”). In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called “pockets”) that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.”-

XEROSTOMIA “One of the most common oral health problems for diabetics is dry mouth or altered salivary flow (or xerostomia, if you like medical terms)…. The saliva has several functions. It prevents infection by controlling bacteria in the mouth. It moistens and cleanses the mouth by neutralizing acids produced by dental plaque, and it washes away the dead skin cells that accumulate on the gums, tongue and cheeks. It helps with digestion, making it possible to chew, taste and swallow food. Dry mouth occurs when there is not enough saliva (real or perceived) to keep your mouth moist, which is important for health, comfort and for speaking.”- -Dry mouth is a side effect for over 500 medications! -Medications used to manage complications due to diabetes are known for causing xerostomia.

ROOT CARIES Root caries appear when bacteria in your mouth take sugars from foods you eat and excrete acids that attack your root. Risk factors for root caries include: xerostomia, periodontal disease, recession, gender (males more affected), diabetes. Root caries happen much faster than cavities on your enamel because your root surface is covered in cementum; which is not as mineralized as enamel.

WHAT CAN WE DO? Biotene Xylitol is a sugar substitute that also helps to prevent tooth decay and dry mouth! *It doesn’t convert sugar into acid to start demineralization Regular check-ups at the dentist Diet changes-lemon in the water Proper brushing and flossing