Dry Mouth is a Common Sign of Diabetes: What You Should Know

Does your mouth always feel dry and sticky? Have you noticed more trouble chewing or swallowing your food lately? Persistent dry mouth, especially alongside increased thirst or frequent urination, is worth bringing up with both your doctor and dentist.

When saliva is reduced, it can’t neutralize acids, protect your teeth and gums, or flush away bacteria the way it should. Over time, this can put you at increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and even fungal infections like thrush.

Dry mouth (xerostomia) can affect anyone. Still, it’s particularly common in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes when their blood sugar is out of control and their salivary glands don’t produce enough moisture. 

Our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry specializes in oral hygiene and teeth cleanings, and we treat patients with symptoms such as chronic dry mouth, cracked lips, or a sticky film in the mouth. Often, these signs alert us that there may be more going on.

Why diabetes leads to dry mouth

There are several reasons why dry mouth is common among people with diabetes. First and foremost, diabetes changes the way your body processes sugar, and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can alter the composition of your saliva or reduce blood flow to the salivary glands, leading to reduced saliva production.

When your blood sugar is high, your kidneys try to remove excess glucose by producing more urine. Increased urination can contribute to fluid loss and dehydration, which often lead to symptoms such as increased thirst and a dry mouth. 

Even if your diabetes is well-controlled, some diabetes treatments can affect saliva production. Other complications, like neuropathy that affects the nerves serving your salivary glands, may also contribute. 

Because saliva is so important for oral cleanliness and tissue health, dry mouth in the context of diabetes isn’t just uncomfortable. It’s a warning sign to take action so you can start getting the care you need for your oral and overall health.

Dry mouth? Here’s what your dentist looks for

If you have an uncomfortable dry mouth, don’t ignore it. Book a dentist appointment to find out more about possible causes.

When you come to Austin Advanced Dentistry for a routine teeth cleaning, we ask about symptoms like dry mouth, burning sensations, or changes in taste or swallowing. These symptoms, combined with your medical history, can help us evaluate your risk.

We perform thorough exams of your gums, teeth, tongue, and soft tissues to detect inflammation, plaque buildup, or early signs of infection. If we notice anything concerning, we can recommend the next steps, such as making an appointment with your primary care provider for a diabetes test.

How you can protect your mouth when living with diabetes

If you’re diagnosed with diabetes, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy good oral health. Preventive care helps maintain mouth comfort, keeps your teeth and gums strong, and lowers your risk of periodontal disease and other complications. Here’s how to start.

1. Stay on top of both your blood sugar and oral hygiene

Controlling your glucose levels helps reduce the likelihood of dry mouth, and keeping up with regular professional cleanings and oral hygiene visits helps prevent the dental complications that often follow. We believe preventive visits are important for everyone — but especially for patients with systemic conditions like diabetes.

2. Hydrate consistently and chew sugar-free gum

Drinking water throughout the day supports saliva flow and helps rinse away acids. Sugar-free gum or lozenges can also gently stimulate your salivary glands in between professional cleanings.

3. Use appropriate oral hygiene products

A fluoride toothpaste, a gentle brush, and an antimicrobial mouth rinse are helpful. Because dry mouth reduces your natural acid-neutralizing capacity, we may recommend special rinses or remineralizing products during your teeth-cleaning appointment.

4. Schedule regular dental appointments and mention your dry mouth

During your routine teeth cleanings, let us know about any persistent dryness, cracks at the corners of your mouth, or difficulty chewing. These could be signs of underlying issues we need to monitor closely. Along with our general dentistry services, we offer tailored preventive care to help prevent problems like these from escalating.

5. Work with your healthcare team on long-term management

Since dry mouth can signal changes in blood sugar control or the need to adjust medications, it’s essential to keep your primary care or diabetes specialist in the loop. Together with your dental team, you form a triad of support for both your systemic and oral health.

Dry mouth isn’t always just an oral health issue. This National Diabetes Month, our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry is raising awareness of this common diabetes symptom, and we encourage patients to view their oral health as part of the larger picture of managing diabetes.

If you’re experiencing persistent dry mouth or have diabetes and your regular dental care has fallen behind, now is a great time to schedule a visit. Call our Austin, Texas, office at 512-886-6734 or book online now.