Diabetes affects many parts of the body, including the mouth. Individuals who have diabetes have a greater risk of developing a variety of oral diseases. Knowing about the relationship between diabetes and oral health can help in managing these diseases.
How Diabetes Affects Oral Health
High blood sugar can harm your mouth in a number of ways. If your blood sugar is uncontrolled, it can weaken your immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight infections, which includes infection of your gums and teeth. This can result in gum disease, which is another term for periodontal disease, which can range from mild gum irritation to severe infections that may cause tooth loss.
Common Oral Health Problems in People with Diabetes
Gum Disease
Gum disease is more common in people who have diabetes. High levels of blood glucose can make gums become inflamed and infected. Infected gums bleed and pull away from teeth, creating pockets in which bacteria can grow. Over time, this can lead to more severe issues like tooth loss or damage to the bone that supports the teeth.
Dry Mouth
Diabetes can lower saliva production, resulting in a dry mouth. Dry mouth makes it more difficult for a person to chew and swallow food and can increase susceptibility to tooth decay and gum disease. Dry mouth can lead to bad breath.
Tooth Decay
Diabetic patients have an increased risk of experiencing a dry mouth and a rise in saliva sugar content, which can increase the risk of tooth rot. The bacteria in your mouth metabolize sugar, which leads to infection and cavities.
How to Protect Your Oral Health with Diabetes
Regulation of your blood sugar levels is critical in keeping your entire body healthy along with your teeth. The following should be followed:
• Floss Daily and Brush Twice a Day: Daily flossing once and brushing twice a day keeps plaque and bacteria in check, which keeps gums and teeth healthy.
• Go visit your dentist: Visits on a regular basis help catch oral health issues early. Tell your dentist about your diabetes so your mouth can be monitored carefully.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can calm a parched mouth and wash away bacteria and food debris.
• Maintain Blood Sugar Control: Keeping your blood sugar under healthy levels keeps your risk of oral diseases in check.
Diabetes and oral health are closely linked. Caring for your gums and teeth is just as important as managing your blood glucose levels. With healthy habits, you can keep both your mouth and body healthy.
The information provided is for general information purposes only and not intended to replace professional care. Please consult your physician or dentist for advice and diagnoses so you can be properly treated for your specific situation.
