Understand the connections between diabetes and oral health
In Canada, one in three people has diabetes or prediabetes, a chronic disease that prevents
the body from producing or properly using insulin. Diabetes affects a person’s health in many ways, including
increasing the risk for heart disease and stroke, kidney disease, glaucoma, and cataracts. But did you know that diabetes can
also affect oral health?
If diabetes is poorly controlled, it can create a burning sensation
in the mouth or on the tongue. Worse, it can cause oral thrush
(a fungal infection in the mouth) or dry mouth (xerostomia),
a condition in which the glands in the mouth don’t produce
enough saliva, raising the risk of cavities. Poorly controlled
diabetes can also increase a person’s risk of developing
periodontal disease, an infection of the gums and bone that
surround and support the teeth. Initially, gums may be sore
or bleed when brushed. Over time, the infection may cause
bone loss that can lead to tooth loss. At the same time,
untreated periodontal disease can cause blood sugar to rise,
creating a vicious circle in which diabetes becomes even more
difficult to control.
But there is good news: dental hygienists can identify signs and
symptoms of undiagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes. They will
refer you to your doctor for a medical consultation and can help
you manage your blood glucose levels by offering nutrition
counselling and smoking cessation strategies. They will also
work with you to develop an individualized at-home oral care
routine, including twice daily toothbrushing with a fluoride
toothpaste and daily cleaning between your teeth. Together,
your dental hygienist and your doctor—essential primary health
care providers—can give you the tools you need to take care of
your diabetes and your teeth, preventing serious complications
and promoting optimal health.
Learn more about diabetes and oral health at dentalhygienecanada.ca/diabetes