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Can diabetes cause dry mouth? The answer is yes. Among all the symptoms of diabetes, one of the most common is dry mouth, which is also clinically known as xerostomia. This common symptom is seen in both type 1 as well as type 2 diabetes. That said, not all individuals with diabetes will experience dry mouth. You can have a dry mouth even if you do not have diabetes. If you develop a dry mouth and suspect that it is caused by diabetes, you must speak to your doctor.
When there is a lack of saliva in the mouth, the mouth can become dry. Saliva helps to keep levels of bacteria in check and is also responsible for balancing and washing away acids around the gums and teeth.
Symptoms Of Dry Mouth
Some of the most common symptoms of dry mouth are mentioned below:
- Tongue that is rough and dry
- Mouth that is devoid of moisture
- Recurring pain in the mouth
- Lips that are cracked and chapped
- Mouth sores
- Oral cavity infections
- Difficulty while chewing, swallowing, or talking
- Irritation at the mouth’s corners
- Gingivitis or inflammation of the gums
- Oral thrush (Fungal or yeast infections on the cheeks and the tongue, sometimes caused by intaking a course of antibiotics). Oral thrush’s symptoms include white patches in the mouth, reddening of the tongue, and cracking of the skin tissue at the corners of the lips.
Causes Of Dry Mouth
Anyone can experience a dry mouth; however, it is a common symptom among individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The precise reasons are not known, but high glucose levels in the blood and saliva of those with diabetes can cause dry mouth. Certain medications that are used in the treatment of diabetes can also cause dry mouth. Other causes of dry mouth include dehydration, kidney dialysis, smoking, certain medications, and the practice of breathing through the mouth.
Complications Of Dry Mouth
An untreated dry mouth can lead to several oral health issues. Saliva is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, and it also contains cells that help combat pathogens that can cause infection. When there is less saliva in your mouth, there is a buildup of glucose and bacteria. This can further lead to the formation of plaque, which, in turn, can cause dental cavities.
Untreated dry mouth can lead to the below-mentioned complications over a period:
- Inflamed, irritated gums (known as Gingivitis) because of the presence of bacteria
- Inflammation of the tissue that surrounds the teeth (known as Periodontitis)
- Thrush (or candidiasis), wherein there is a growth of excessive mouth fungus
- Bad breath (or halitosis) that generally persists even after cleaning and brushing your teeth
In specific, severe cases, infection of the salivary glands can occur. Further, a dry mouth can lead to sleep-related problems and directly affecting your sense of taste.
Prevention
Several methods of treating dry mouth also serve as preventative methods. Follow the below-mentioned tips to prevent a dry mouth:
- Avoid salty, spicy foods, especially if they cause mouth pain.
- Maintain your blood glucose levels within the recommended range.
- Avoid intake of tobacco, caffeine, and alcoholic beverages. These can worsen dry mouth.
- Consume 8-10 glasses of water each day. Staying well-hydrated reduces the risk of dry mouth.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for regular teeth cleansing.
- Use a humidifier for your home. Increase in the quantity of moisture in the air can help in relieving a dry mouth.
- Thoroughly brush dentures or braces after every meal.
- Use a mouthwash or gel that is free of alcohol.
- Use a lip balm if your lips become dry or irritated, especially at the corners.
The Final Word
Diabetes and dry mouth are associated. That said, dry mouth is a manageable condition. If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar levels in check is the best way to keep a dry mouth at bay. Take medications as advised by your doctor, and avoid sugary drinks and foods. Dry mouth is not generally a serious complication of diabetes; however, it can lead to health problems if you do not treat it on time.
