Diabetes: Does it affect oral health?

Diabetes causes problems in different organs of the body, including nerves and blood vessels, but it is also a high risk factor for diseases in the mouth that can cause tooth loss. The diabetic person must have extreme dental hygiene since high glucose levels favor the reproduction of fungi and bacteria in the oral cavity.

Research shows that there is an increase in the frequency of gingivitis (early stage of gum disease) as well as periodontitis (severe gum disease) to the list of other complications associated with diabetes, such as heart problems, stroke and kidney disease.

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Other oral problems associated with diabetes include canker sores, an infection caused by a fungus that grows in the mouth, and dry mouth, which can cause pain, ulcers, infections and cavities.

Regarding the relationship between severe gum disease and diabetes, there may be two reasons. Not only are patients with diabetes more susceptible to severe gum disease, but severe gum disease can also affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.

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Prevention

If your blood glucose levels are poorly controlled, you are more likely to develop severe gum disease and lose more teeth than non-diabetics.

Like all infections, severe gum disease can be a factor in increased blood sugar levels and can make it more difficult to control diabetes.

In order to prevent these dental problems caused by diabetes, it is important to control your blood glucose level. Then, take good care of your teeth and gums, along with regular visits to the dentist for a dental cleaning every six months. To control thrush, maintain good diabetic control and avoid smoking. Good glucose control can also help prevent and relieve dry mouth caused by diabetes.

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It is important that we keep our dentist if you have diabetes, as people with diabetes have special needs and your dentist and hygienist are equipped to meet those needs. Any changes in your condition and any medications you may be taking are also important things to be aware of. inform the dentist. Postpone any non-emergency dental procedures if your blood sugar is not well controlled.