EN 
ES Dr. Arabella Michelén
August is the month dedicated to preventing and raising awareness about diabetes in the Dominican Republic. This systemic disease has a close relationship with oral health, particularly with periodontal disease.
There are signs and symptoms that can be observed in the oral cavity which, when detected by a dentist, could lead to an early diagnosis of diabetes.
Diabetes is generally associated with blood sugar problems, blurred vision, or weight loss. However, it can also manifest with subtler signs in the mouth and in daily routines, which may alert to an undiagnosed metabolic disorder.
Oral health and overall health are deeply connected, and in the case of diabetes, the mouth can be one of the first to raise the red flag that something is wrong.
Oral signs that could indicate diabetes
1. Dry mouth (xerostomia)
The constant feeling of dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, speaking, or eating is a common complaint in people with elevated glucose levels. Diabetes can affect the salivary glands, reducing saliva production. This decrease not only causes discomfort but also promotes the development of cavities, infections, and bad breath.
2. Frequent or rapidly developing cavities
Saliva serves a natural protective function against the bacteria that cause cavities. When saliva is limited, teeth become more vulnerable, even with good hygiene. If you notice more cavities than usual without a clear cause, it is important to investigate further.
3. Persistent halitosis (bad breath)
Bad breath that does not improve with brushing or rinsing may be related to dehydrated oral tissues, fungal infections such as candidiasis, or ketones, compounds produced by the body in response to altered blood sugar levels.
4. Unexplained fatigue and constant sleepiness
If oral signs are accompanied by fatigue, blurred vision, weight loss, or excessive thirst, it could indicate hyperglycemia. When the body cannot properly use glucose as an energy source, it results in decreased physical and mental performance.
The dentist’s role in early detection
Many cases of type 2 diabetes are diagnosed late. However, the dentist can play a key role in early detection by noticing suspicious signs during a routine examination.
When the professional identifies an excessively dry mouth, inflamed gums that do not improve with cleaning, rapidly progressing cavities, or frequent infections, they usually recommend a medical evaluation and a glucose test.
Recommendations for maintaining your oral and overall health
• Do not ignore changes in your oral health.
• If you have a family history of diabetes, stay alert.
• Visit the dentist at least twice a year.
• Maintain a balanced diet and limit the intake of refined sugars.
• Seek a medical check-up if you experience several of these symptoms.
The mouth speaks for your body. Symptoms such as dry mouth, frequent cavities, bad breath, and persistent fatigue may be more than minor discomforts—they could be signs of a chronic condition like diabetes. Listen to your body and take action promptly. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in your health and quality of life.