Diabetes impacts your dental health in many ways. Patients with diabetes often experience dry mouth, where there’s less saliva than usual. Saliva serves an important function, helping to wash away food particles and acids. If you don’t have enough saliva, these particles may settle in the mouth, leading to tooth decay. This is why patients with diabetes have a higher risk of developing cavities. Dry mouth is also linked to ulcers, infections, and soreness in the mouth.
Diabetes can slow the healing process from wounds, so those who have dental surgery may struggle with a slower recovery time. These patients are also more susceptible to infections. Proper care and treatment will help you avoid or minimize these risks.