It’s amazing how much our mouths are linked to our health and wellness. Our mouth is the first step in our digestive process and can help guard us from bacteria and infections. The good health of our mouths is crucial in the control of diabetes.
One of the most common oral health problems from diabetics is dry mouth or altered salivary flow. When we eat, our teeth, mouth muscles, face, and jaw grind the food into smaller pieces to be easily digested in the stomach and intestine. The saliva in our mouths prevents infections by controlling bacteria as well as moisten and cleanse the mouth of acids. It makes it possible for us to chew and swallow our food, as well as taste it. Saliva washes away dead skin cells that stick on our gums, tongues, and cheeks. Dry mouth occurs when the saliva production is decreased, causing discomfort and making it hard to digest food.
Many times, dry mouth is caused by side effects of illnesses or medications. Over 500 prescription and nonprescription medications are known to have a side effect of dry mouth. Medications meant for high blood pressure and heart problems are also used to manage diabetes in many patients. Other medications that typically cause dry mouth are used for depression, anxiety, and allergies. Anti-psychotics, muscle relaxers, sedatives, and anti-inflammatory medications are also known to cause dry mouth. Caffeinated beverages and alcohol are also known to cause dry mouth and should be limited.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of your medications before taking them. If dry mouth is typically a side effect, your doctor may be able to switch your medication. If you know you are prone to dry mouth, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. It’s important for patients with diabetes to stay hydrated not only to prevent dry mouth, but to also improve their overall health. Visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and evaluation to minimize oral health issues associated with dry mouth and diabetes. Keeping your oral health under control can significantly improve the control of your diabetes.
Dental care for dry mouth
A diabetes patient with dry mouth can develop an oral care routine to help with symptoms of dry mouth. Here are some ways to improve your dry mouth:
- Take care of your teeth and mouth at least four time a day, specifically after meals and before bedtime
- Rinse and wipe mouth after each meal
- Brush and rinse any removable dental appliances after eating
- Use toothpaste with fluoride and avoid any with peroxide or alcohol
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Apply prescription fluoride to the mouth at bedtime
- Avoid drinks and foods with high sugar content
- Avoid salty foods
- Avoid acidic drinks and foods as well as diet sodas
- Avoid mouthwashes and rinses that contain alcohol
- Use lip balm regularly
- Try salivary substitutes or artificial saliva products. Talk with your doctor to find the best for you
- In severe cases of dry mouth, your doctor may want you to use pilocarpine
Common reasons for dry mouth associated with diabetes
- Side effects of medications
- Kidney dialysis
- Mouth breathing
Clinical signs of dry mouth
- Loss of moisture
- Dryness of oral membranes
- Cracked corners of mouth
- Trouble wearing dentures
- Yeast infection
- Mouth sores