Are you a diabetic suffering from dental health problems? Diabetes can inhibit insulin production in your body or prevent your body from using it properly. So, you might experience high blood sugar levels and diseases like heart problems, nerve damage, and oral health troubles. You can experience gum disease, infections, and so on.
Read this blog to learn how this health condition can affect your dental health and how you can protect your teeth and gums.
How Can Diabetes Affect Your Oral Health?
You can experience the following oral health conditions because of your high blood sugar:
Dry Mouth
This health condition can reduce saliva production in your mouth. Saliva can wash away the food particles and harmful bacteria in your mouth. Less saliva puts you at a higher risk of experiencing cavities and gum diseases.
Delayed Healing
You can experience delayed healing of wounds because of your high sugar. So, you might easily experience oral infections even for minor oral health issues. Your mouth might struggle to heal after extractions and surgeries.
Gum Disease
This systematic health condition can reduce your blood circulation and weaken your immune response. So, you might easily develop gum disease. Your gingivitis can become potent to cause gum recession and tooth loss. Seek preventive care to protect your teeth.
Fungal Infections
Diabetes can make you more susceptible to infections such as oral thrush. High sugar levels can create a perfect environment for the growth of Candida yeast in your mouth. You might see visible white patches and experience discomfort in your mouth.
Tooth Decay
The reduction of saliva in your mouth can help bacteria feed on sugars and produce acids to damage your enamel. So, you might frequently experience tooth decay and cavities.
What Signs and Symptoms Should You Watch Out For?
Wondering how to identify an oral health issue? Watch out for these warning signs:
- Excessive bleeding and swelling of gums can be an early sign of gum disease.
- Experiencing stinky breath? Bacterial buildup or infection can cause this.
- A dry mouth can create a burning sensation in your mouth. You might also develop mouth sores and cavities.
- Severe gum disease can make your gums shrink, causing tooth loss.
- A weakened immune system might make you susceptible to infections like thrush and gum abscesses.
How Can You Manage Your Dental Health With Diabetes?
You must work closely with a dentist and a doctor to protect your oral health and reduce the risk of other health complications. Your doctor can monitor your diabetes level and give you medicines accordingly. Try to maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing.
Antibacterial mouthwash can kill the harmful bacteria in your mouth and stop plaque buildup. You can also opt for different preventive dental procedures like fluoride treatments, exams, and cleaning to protect yourself from tooth decay and loss.
According to studies, adults with diabetes are 40% more likely to suffer from untreated cavities. Regular check-ups will help you stop dental issues in their tracks before they become too severe.
Good oral health can help you control your diabetes. High blood sugar can increase your risk of experiencing gum disease, infections, and cavities. Do be extra vigilant with your dental care. Follow the necessary steps to control your sugar levels and build a solid oral care routine. Visit a dentist regularly to avoid complications.
Ready to guard your gums and teeth? Schedule a consultation today!
