Diabetes is a serious medical condition that can target every area of your body, including your teeth. If you were recently diagnosed with diabetes, it's important that you understand this factor so that you can protect yourself. Learn what diabetes can do to your teeth.

Dry Mouth

To manage your diabetes, you will be required to monitor your eating habits and take a regular medication. However, high blood sugar and some of the medications used to treat the condition can cause dry mouth. Dry mouth causes your body to produce less saliva than what is ideal. 

As a result, your mouth will feel drier than normal, and you may also experience problems with foul breath. In addition to keeping your mouth moist, saliva helps wash away bacteria, including cavity-causing bacteria, so having dry mouth can increase your risk of cavities. A dentist can help you combat any dry mouth concerns. 

Infection Risk

People who have diabetes are at an increased risk for developing an infection. One of the most dangerous oral infections a person can develop is gum disease. Gum disease targets the tissue and bones around your gums and causes them to recede. As they erode, they offer less support for your tooth and eventually, the tooth falls out. 

Since you are at an increased risk for infection, you must commit to excellent oral hygiene practices. Brushing twice a day and flossing are critical. Even a small amount of food left between your teeth can promote gum disease and infection, so ensure you work hard to keep your mouth clean. 

Slowed Healing

Diabetes can also slow down the healing process. For this reason, people with this medical condition must be extra careful when it comes to wound care. If you have a wound in your mouth, the reduced healing speed only makes it easier for bacteria to settle inside and cause an infection. 

Remember, an infection in your mouth can quickly travel to another place in your body and cause serious illness. You should speak with your dentist if you have a wound in your mouth that is not healing for close monitoring and extra wound care tips. 

After your diagnosis, ensure you speak with your dental provider about the condition. The dental provider will use this information to try and spot a mouth, tooth, or gum issue before it turns into something more severe and to provide you with additional care tips. For more information, contact a company like Desert Dental: Ruintan Kamran D.M.D.