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Article: Diabetes Liked To Gum Disease, Dry Mouth
- Article from:
- The Culvert Chronicles
- Article date:
- May 24, 2007
- Author:
CopyrightCopyright The Culvert Chronicles May 24-May 30, 2007. Provided by ProQuest LLC. (Hide copyright information)
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(News USA) - Most people know that diabetes means that the body cannot produce enough insulin. But what people may not know is how the disease can impact oral health.
According to the American Diabetes Association, more than 14 million Americans currently suffer from the disease, while 6.2 million cases remain undiagnosed. And that number, say experts, may climb as high as 31 million by the year 2050.
Most diabetics understand the risks and complications associated with the disease. But one condition that may not get much attention is xerostomia, or dry mouth, which is caused by the mouth not producing enough saliva.
Saliva contains enzymes and proteins that help control the bacteria in our ...