What Is The Connection Between Diabetes And Bad Breath?

Your breath has a direct connection with your overall health. Quite often, bad breath can be a sign of an underlying disease or illness, such as respiratory tract infections, chronic sinus infections, postnasal drip, diabetes, chronic acid reflux, gastrointestinal issues, and liver or kidney problems. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the connection between diabetes and bad breath.

When someone suffers from diabetes, the structure of the blood vessels is altered. This will affect the efficiency of blood flow, weakening the bone and making the gums prone to infection. In addition, if diabetes is not strictly managed, there may be higher than usual levels of glucose in saliva, which encourages the growth of bacteria leading to gum inflammation, infection, and bad breath.

Common Causes Of Bad Breath In Diabetes Patients 

Periodontal disease

Several studies have reported a significant link between uncontrolled diabetes and periodontitis. One in three people with diabetes will experience some form of gum disease in their lifetime [1]. 

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory gum disease in which oral bacteria attacks the oral tissues and bone surrounding the teeth [2]. If blood sugar levels are not regulated, periodontal diseases can get worse. It may damage the gums, jaw bone and can even lead to tooth loss. Periodontal diseases are mainly of three types:

Gingivitis

It is the mildest form of gum disease in which there is reddening, swelling, and tenderness in the gums. The gums may also bleed during brushing. Early treatment can help resolve the condition quickly. 

Mild periodontitis

When gingivitis is left untreated it leads to mild periodontitis. In this stage, the gums pull away from the teeth and as a result, a pocket will be formed between the teeth and gums. Bacteria can proliferate in these gaps, increasing the risk of bone loss around the teeth. Prompt dental care can avoid further damage.

Advanced periodontitis

This is the most advanced stage of gum disease. It leads to bone loss, deepening of gum pockets, and receding gums around the teeth. Your teeth can become loose and may have to be extracted.

Ketoacidosis

Ketoacidosis is a condition that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin, which means that glucose cannot be utilized efficiently as an energy source. As a result, your body starts to use fat as an energy source for various bodily functions. When fat stored in cells is used instead of glucose, it produces ketones, which start building up in blood and urine. The high level of ketones present in the body causes bad breath. The smell is almost similar to acetone, the chemical present in a nail polish remover. If this condition is left untreated, it can lead to several complications including frequent urination, trouble breathing, confusion, abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, exhaustion, and so on. As soon as you notice these symptoms, you should immediately seek medical attention. Ketoacidosis [3] is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition. It is most common in people suffering from type 1 diabetes [4].

Tips To Avoid Bad Breath Due To Diabetes

• Practice good oral hygiene and brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Floss your teeth daily to remove food particles and plaque between teeth
• Make sure to brush or scrape your tongue to avoid the buildup of odor-causing bacteria
• Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash twice a day
• Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months
• Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist
• Ensure that your blood sugar levels are in the normal range
• Use sugar-free mints or gums to stimulate saliva production
• Visit your dentist regularly for oral exams as this will help ensure early detection and effective treatment of periodontal disease
• If using dentures they should be properly fitted and removed at night
• Avoid smoking as it can irritate your gums

Takeaway

When you have diabetes, it helps to be on guard against bad breath as this can be an early warning sign of gum disease or ketoacidosis. When detected early, these diabetes complications can be managed effectively.

References

1. http://www.iosrjournals.org/iosr-jdms/papers/Vol6-issue5/H0653033.pdf
2. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/sites/default/files/2017-09/periodontal-disease_0.pdf
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4525534/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6696834/