Being diagnosed with diabetes is overwhelming in so many ways.

Not only does it mean a major change to your dietary habits, it can also imply the need for more regular dental and vision care.

Diabetes has long been known to increase the risk of many visual complications, but the disease can also play a big part in dental issues.

Oral Infections
If you have noticed swelling, discomfort, or increased sensitivity in your mouth recently, there could be an oral infection present. This can also be denoted by dark spots on the teeth, sinus pressure, or red patches on the soft tissue of the mouth. While diabetes may not be the root cause, the infection can make blood sugar difficult to control and increased sugar in the blood stream can negatively impact oral health. Thus, it can become downward spiral. Any of these warning signs should be treated with concern and respect. A dentist should evaluate the problem as soon as possible.

Fungal Infections
Diabetes can be the cause of other oral conditions, including fungal infections. High blood sugar levels can result in a condition known as thrush. That is a thick white patchy appearance on the tongue or other soft tissue in the mouth. At times, this can appear as red patches as well. If left untreated, the fungi can cause ulcers to form in the mouth as well.

Dry Mouth
Some of the medications associated with diabetes are known to leave the mouth feeling excessively dry. Dry mouth increases the risk of decay and bacterial infection. Increasing liquid intake can help, but this problem should also be discussed with a dental professional.

For more information about diabetes and your dental health, continue reading the full article.