Did you know that India is the second largest country with the most diabetic patients in the world? At Least a decent few people in your own circle might be having diabetes. And did you know that Gum diseases and Gum inflammation is drastically higher in people with diabetes when compared to those with no diabetes? Also, diabetes is the one disease that can actually get worse if your oral health is worse.
Well then what exactly is the link between diabetes and oral health and how can you start managing your oral health now. Read along.
Why are people with diabetes more susceptible to dental issues?
In diabetic conditions, Two major changes occur that need to be noted. 1) Increase in your blood sugar or glucose level and 2) weakened white blood cells which decrease the body’s immune capacity. Based of these,
Here’s how diabetes affects oral health
-
Gingivitis and periodontal issue
Due to weakened white blood cells, the blood vessels are caused to thicken. This, paired with delayed healing can irritate the gums and alter the normal blood flow. It results in infected and inflamed gums. -
Higher risk of cavities
Due to high sugar levels, there is a high level of bacterial accumulation. This leads to increased or frequent and repeated cavities. -
Higher risk of losing teeth
As the gums get inflamed, they move away from the teeth and do not hold them as strongly as before. Also the infection spreading to the bone is a concern in diabetic patients. Both of these can lead to weak teeth. -
Dry mouth
Decrease or changes in the salivary glands can cause a dry mouth, which will be vulnerable to ulcers, sores and wounds. This can also cause denture irritation or ill fitting dentures. -
Thrush
It is a fungal infection where white or red inflamed patches are seen in the mouth and the tongue due to weak immunity and/or heavy medication.
How to manage your oral health with diabetes.
-
Maintaining proper oral hygiene
As you can understand we cannot let plaque or food accumulation happen as they will lead to increased gum and tooth infections especially in diabetic patients. Hence be sure not only to brush twice and floss daily, but to keep an eye on your teeth. Look out for yellowish discolourations, bleeding gums, and any black/brown spots. -
Regular dental checkups
If you have had any history of a dental condition, or have not undergone any checkups recently, we strongly advise you to book regular checkups. This way, the dental experts can gauge your condition and keep an eye on the progress. Because any dental treatment is best treated early. -
Regular radiographs
Radiographs give us an insight on bone health In diabetic patients, the risk of periodontal infection, which can spread and cause bone infections are higher. Teeth strength and support within the bone can also be examined via radiographs. -
Communicating with your dentist about your treatments
If you are facing any of the above mentioned symptoms at home, or are undergoing or planning to undergo any dental treatments, we urge you to properly communicate both with your dentist and your consultant doctor about the treatment and any medication you might be taking.
