Many people who have diabetes may not know they have it. Your dentist can play an important role in discovering the oral symptoms of diabetes and helping to manage its oral effects. Diabetics tend to get periodontal disease at a rate three to four times higher than people without diabetes.
Other oral problems that diabetes can cause are dry mouth, a burning of the mouth or tongue, a fungal infection called thrush that causes painful white patches in your mouth, or a distinct breath odor. Diabetics who are not diagnosed are at a greater risk for infections following dental procedures such as extractions and root canals.
