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Diabetes is a systemic disease characterized chiefly by the body's inability to control the sugar level in the blood stream. Managing this disease can consist of an appropriate diet and, if needed, taking insulin, either orally or by injection.

Uncontrolled diabetes impacts the oral cavity several ways.

First, because of the difficulty in stabilizing the sugar levels, it can lead to compromised or slower healing. If you have a sore in the mouth or a heavy cleaning, it might take longer for your body to heal. In fact, in persons undiagnosed with diabetes, a dentist might suspect this condition in patients with recurring slow-to-heal conditions and refer them to their physician for further investigation.

Second, if a diabetic has gum disease, this diseased tissue is the perfect entry point for oral bacteria to get into the blood stream and potentially cause problems in other parts of the body.

So, what can you do?

If you are a diabetic, you must make sure your oral health is as good as it can be. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and any treatment that is necessary. Make sure he/she is aware of the diabetes and the medications you're taking. Remember that the dentist is another member of your health team.

Practice good homecare. Brush and floss regularly. There are mouth rinses that your dentist might prescribe to assist in killing bacteria in tough-to-get spots.

If you detect a problem, i.e. sensitivity in a tooth, an oral sore that won't heal, get to your dentist for treatment as soon as possible. Problems don't clear up by themselves. They usually get worse.

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