Introduction
According to the World Health Organisation(WHO) in India, it is estimated that 77 million adults suffer from type 2 diabetes and approximately 25 million are in the pre-diabetic stage. (WHO link)
Diabetes causes the body to produce a heightened response to resident bacteria, leading to various health conditions. This impact extends to the mouth as well.
If you or someone you care for has diabetes, please follow our guide to help you understand how you can maintain your dental health. Our guide will help you understand the connection between diabetes and oral health and provide practical tips to keep your mouth healthy.
How Does Diabetes Affect Your Mouth?
Diabetes can lead to several oral health problems, including:
Gum Disease: High blood sugar can cause gum inflammation, known as gingivitis. If untreated, it can lead to a severe form of gum disease called periodontitis that can result in tooth loss.
Dry Mouth: Diabetes can reduce the salivary flow, causing a condition called xerostomia. Saliva is important for neutralizing acids and preventing tooth decay. Hence, this can increase the chance of tooth decay.
Thrush: High blood sugar levels can lead to fungal infections in the mouth, such as thrush, which appears as white patches on the tongue or inside the cheeks.
Slow Healing: Diabetes can slow down the healing process of wounds, including those in the mouth, making it harder to recover from dental procedures.
Symptoms to Watch For
Be on the lookout for these signs of oral health problems:
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Persistent bad breath
Dry mouth or a burning sensation
White patches or sores in the mouth that don’t heal
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health
Control Your Blood Sugar: Keeping your blood sugar levels under control helps reduce the risk of oral health issues.
Brush and Floss Daily: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule dental check-ups every six months and inform your dentist about your diabetes.
Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help combat dry mouth.
When to See Your Dentist
Make an appointment with your dentist if you notice any of the following:
Gums that bleed easily
Persistent bad breath
Loose teeth
Dry mouth that doesn't improve with hydration
Sores or white patches in your mouth
Non-healing ulcers or wounds in mouth
Conclusion
Managing your diabetes is crucial for your overall health, including your oral health. By following these tips and maintaining regular dental visits, you can prevent oral health issues and ensure a healthy mouth.
Additional Resources
For more information, visit the American Diabetes Association or Book an appointment today with our specialist in ECR Dental Hospital to know about the best ways to manage your diabetes and oral health.
Opmerkingen