What does brushing and flossing your teeth have to do with diabetes? The correct answer is PLENTY! Good oral health care minimizes the risk of dental infections. Infections play havoc with blood sugar levels, and uncontrolled blood sugar levels weaken white blood cells, our main defense against infections.
Diabetics are more prone to dental infections because of the glucose present in their saliva. The bacteria feast on the sugar and multiply. Combined with food, they form plaque, and plaque build-up results in tooth decay and gum disease. This vicious cycle can be nipped with good oral health.
Dental Conditions Associated with Diabetes
Even though diabetics are predisposed to certain dental conditions, good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can reduce the chances of ever having dental issues. Diabetes can cause problems with:
- Your teeth
- Your gums
- Your jaw
- Tissues such as your tongue, inside your cheeks, and the roof and floor of your mouth
Signs that need to be investigated include:
- A mouth ulcer or sore that is not healing.
- Pain in your mouth, jaw, or face that won’t go away.
- Loose teeth
- Pain while chewing
- A bad taste in your mouth
- Bad breath that won’t go away, even after brushing your teeth
The following issues are common but preventable:
Periodontitis and gingivitis (gum inflammation)
Diabetes causes blood vessels to thicken, hampering the body from fighting any infection. Thickened blood vessels decrease the speed at which nutrients are delivered to an infected area, and waste products are removed from the infected area.
Periodontitis and gingivitis (gum disease) may start as mild infections, but if not treated, can rapidly progress to a severe infection.
Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)
If diabetes is not well controlled, this condition is exasperated. Diabetics often suffer from a lack of saliva, so diabetics with dry mouth can develop mouth ulcers, infections, tooth decay, and a sore, sensitive mouth. Staying well hydrated helps to keep these conditions at bay.
Taste Disturbances and Oral Burning
Uncontrolled diabetics often complain that food tastes bitter and that they have a burning sensation in their mouths. This is often heightened if they suffer from Dry Mouth.
Thrush (Candidiasis)
Uncontrolled diabetics often have a high concentration of glucose in their saliva and fungal infections thrive in those conditions. Diabetics who wear dentures, and have had numerous courses of antibiotics, are also prone to oral fungal infections.
Dental Care for People With Diabetes
With good dental care, people with diabetes can have strong healthy teeth and gums. Some tips to prevent dental problems include:
- Schedule regular dental visits, at least every six months. During these visits your dentist will:
- Do a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. If there is any sign of infection, it can be detected and treated early.
- Be available to discuss any dental concerns you have.
- Update your dental record chart if any of your medication has been adjusted.
- Ensure you practice good oral hygiene. This includes:
- Brushing and flossing your teeth after every meal. Brush gently, using a circular motion.
- Ensure you brush the front and back teeth, as well as the top of your mouth, and tongue.
- Observe for and immediately report any cuts or sores.
- Change your toothbrush every three months, or more often if necessary. Even with good care, toothbrushes eventually accumulate dangerous bacteria.
- Use a dentist-recommended mouth rinse. This will help to control plaque build-up and reduce the incidence of gum disease.
- Ensure that your dentures fit properly. Remove them at night and clean them properly before re-inserting.
- To reduce Dry Mouth (Xerostomia), drink plenty of water daily.
- Schedule a doctor’s appointment before any dental procedure. Postpone the dental procedure if your doctor does not give you the all-clear.
- Stop smoking.
- Ensure you have regular medical check-ups and maintain your blood sugar level at the normal range.
Eriks Dental Group – Boynton Beach Dentist of Choice
Eriks Dental group is known for providing caring, capable and comprehensive dental services. If you are a diabetic wanting oral hygiene advice or are looking for a five-star dental experience, look no further. Call us at561-733-4004 for an appointment today.