At Aloha Dental, we’re all about helping you live your healthiest, happiest life—with a smile as bright as the Hawaiian sun. That’s why we want to shine a little light on an important topic that connects your whole-body health to your oral health: diabetes.

You may already know that diabetes affects blood sugar levels—but did you know it can also impact your mouth in big ways? The connection between diabetes and oral health is real, and understanding it can help you stay ahead of both.

How Does Diabetes Affect Your Mouth?

Diabetes can reduce your body’s ability to fight bacteria, and that means trouble for your teeth and gums. Here’s how the domino effect works:

• Higher blood sugar = more sugar in your saliva, which feeds bacteria.
• More bacteria = more plaque, the sticky stuff that leads to gum disease.
• Less healing power = slower recovery, making your gums more prone to infection.
• Dry mouth is also a common side effect of diabetes, which increases the risk of cavities.

That’s why people with diabetes are more likely to experience:

• Bleeding or swollen gums
• Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
• Tooth loss
• Dry mouth and bad breath
• Oral infections like thrush

The Good News? You Can Take Control

Just like managing your blood sugar is key to staying healthy, taking care of your teeth and gums is a major part of the picture. The two go hand in hand—like flip-flops and sandy beaches.

Here’s how to protect your smile if you have diabetes (or want to prevent issues down the line):

• Brush and floss daily—no skipping!
• Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash.
• Stay hydrated to avoid dry mouth.
• Keep blood sugar levels well-managed.
• Don’t miss your dental checkups—especially if you notice bleeding, swelling, or soreness.

What Aloha Dental Can Do for You

At Aloha Dental, we’re tuned in to the unique needs of patients living with diabetes. Dr. Joe Ostheller and our warm-hearted team are here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile with:

• Gentle cleanings tailored for sensitive gums
• Regular exams to catch early signs of gum disease
• Personalized care plans and tips for at-home oral care
• A welcoming space where you’ll always be treated like ohana

We believe that staying healthy shouldn’t feel like a chore—and when you’re under our care, it won’t. We’ll keep things relaxed, friendly, and focused on helping you smile more and stress less.

Let’s Keep That Smile as Bright as a Hawaiian Sunrise

If you or someone you love is living with diabetes, don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big one. Come visit us at Aloha Dental and let’s create a plan that keeps your smile strong, healthy, and full of aloha.

Visit us: 3500 NW Bucklin Hill Rd NW, Suite 200, Silverdale, WA 98383

Call us: (360) 337-7777

Contact us online: alohadental.org/contact

Aloha to health, aloha to smiles—that’s how we do it here.