Millions of people worldwide suffer from diabetes, a chronic illness marked by elevated blood sugar levels brought on by insufficient insulin synthesis or usage. Fewer people are aware of the substantial link between diabetes and dental health, despite the fact that its effects on general health are well known. Diabetes that is not well controlled can damage your teeth and gums, resulting in complications that worsen your general health problems. It is essential to comprehend this connection in order to manage diabetes and provide good oral hygiene.
The Connection Between Diabetes and Oral Health
Diabetes impairs immunity, which makes it more difficult to fight off infections, especially oral ones. High blood sugar levels provide bacteria with the perfect environment to grow, which raises the risk of gum disease and cavities. In instance, periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss, is more common in people with uncontrolled diabetes. Diabetes can also cause xerostomia, or dry mouth, which lowers salivary flow. The absence of saliva increases the risk of dental decay and gum discomfort since it is essential for washing away food particles and neutralizing acids.
Common Oral Health Problems in Diabetics
- Gum Disease: People with diabetes are more likely to have severe cases of gingivitis and periodontitis. Untreated infections can harm the jawbone, and inflamed gums can bleed easily.
- Dry Mouth: An increased risk of cavities, pain, and foul breath can result from low saliva production caused by high blood sugar levels.
- Oral infections: Thrush, a fungal illness brought on by Candida albicans, is one of the oral diseases that diabetics are more likely to get.
- Delayed Healing: It is more difficult to recover from oral procedures or injuries when blood sugar levels are high because they hinder wound healing.
Managing Oral Health with Diabetes
To minimize the impact of diabetes on oral health, follow these essential tips:
- Control Blood Sugar Levels: The key to preserving dental health is efficient diabetes treatment. Gum disease and other dental issues are less likely to occur when blood sugar levels are kept within the desired range.
- Keep Up a Sturdy Oral Hygiene Practice: To get rid of plaque, brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. To lessen bacteria, think about using an antiseptic mouthwash.
- Visit your dentist on a regular basis: Early detection and treatment of oral health issues are made possible by routine dental examinations and cleanings. Inform your dentist Dr. Borham that you have diabetes so that they can adjust your treatment.
- Keep Yourself Hydrated: Water helps remove bacteria and food particles from your mouth and helps fight dry mouth. Lozenges or gum without sugar may also increase salivation.
- Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking damages blood flow to the gums, which makes healing more challenging, and raises the chance of gum disease.
Diabetes and dental health are closely related conditions that frequently affect each other. People with diabetes can greatly lower their risk of dental issues by controlling their blood sugar levels and practicing good oral hygiene. Making oral health a priority not only safeguards your teeth and gums but also helps control diabetes more effectively overall, resulting in a happier, more self-assured smile.
Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.
Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.