Diabetes is a very important disease from a dental point of view. Uncontrolled Diabetes is a cause of concern as it has many detrimental effects on teeth and gums. 

That’s 9.3% of the population. Approximately 1.7 million new cases are diagnosed each year—and 8.1 million people living with diabetes don’t even know they have it. Diabetes affects your body’s ability to process sugar. All food you eat is turned to sugar and used for energy. In Type I diabetes, the body doesn’t make enough insulin, a hormone that carries sugar from your blood to the cells that need it for energy. In Type II diabetes, the body stops responding to insulin. Similarly Both cases result in high blood sugar levels, which can cause problems with your eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart and other parts of your body. So what does this have to do with that smile of yours — and how can you protect it? 

Effect of Diabetes on Dental Health and the roles they play in your mouth

The Symptoms of Untreated Diabetes

The warning signs of diabetes affect every part of your body. After a blood test, you may be told by a doctor that you have high blood sugar. You may feel excessively thirsty or have to urinate a lot. Weight loss and fatigue are other common symptoms. Hence Diabetes can also cause you to lose consciousness if your blood sugar falls too low.If diabetes is left untreated, it can take a toll on your mouth as well. 

Here’s how: You may have less saliva, causing your mouth to feel dry. Dry mouth is also caused by certain medications. Because saliva protects your teeth, you’re also at a higher risk of cavities. Gums may become inflamed and bleed often (gingivitis).Problems tasting food.Delayed wound healing.Infections inside of your mouth.Even more For children with diabetes, teeth may erupt at an age earlier than is typical.