Why is my risk for oral infections greater with diabetes?
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American Dental Association answered:If you have diabetes, you are at greater risk of developing some oral health problems. Since diabetes compromises your immune system, you may be prone to developing fungal infections.
If you are having extensive oral surgery, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection. Because of a longer and more delayed healing process, infection is a greater risk. To help the healing process, keep your blood glucose levels under control before, during and after surgery.
If you have diabetes, you are at greater risk of developing some oral health problems. Since diabetes compromises your immune system, you may be prone to developing fungal infections. If you are having extensive oral surgery, your dentist may... More -
Dr. De Vizio of Colgate answered:The risk for dental problems and gum disease with diabetes is increased because of the elevated blood glucose levels. Regular medical care and dental checkups are most important to keep your diabetes managed so you can avoid serious complications such as gingivitis (gum disease), periodontitis (severe gum disease) and tooth loss. Untreated diseases of the gum may be long-lasting but a proper diagnosis, treatment and supervision by a dentist can allow you to manage this problem as you manage other areas of your life.
The risk for dental problems and gum disease with diabetes is increased because of the elevated blood glucose levels. Regular medical care and dental checkups are most important to keep your diabetes managed so you can avoid serious complications... More -
Dr. R. Tom Glass answered:Diabetics have both oral and systemic problems, making them at greater risk for oral infections. With poorly controlled blood sugar, the saliva blood sugar levels are elevated; providing the bacteria with the glucose source they need to proliferate. In addition, the changes in the small blood vessels make it more difficult for the tissues to fight against the infection. Finally, the excessive thirst that diabetic experience is due to the changes in salivary flow. This lost of flow is another factor that favors the bacteria.Diabetics have both oral and systemic problems, making them at greater risk for oral infections. With poorly controlled blood sugar, the saliva blood sugar levels are elevated; providing the bacteria with the glucose source they need to... More
