Diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body’s cells do not use or process insulin properly. It can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and amputation.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. It is a type of diabetes that can be prevented or controlled with a healthy diet and exercise.
Type 2 diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels over time due to insulin resistance. This type of diabetes does not always have symptoms until it becomes severe enough to require treatment.
Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from defects in insulin secretion, or its action, or both.
Diabetes is a chronic and life-long condition that requires increased monitoring and attention to diet and exercise. Diet does play a big role in managing one’s diabetes and a healthy lifestyle will likely help with blood sugar levels. However, it is hard to know the full extent of how diet impacts blood sugar levels without more research. In regards to battling diabetes, people may not know that smiling more often throughout the day can help them achieve healthy outcomes.
Everyone should schedule regular oral care as part of their daily routine. For people living with diabetes, this is especially important for two reasons. Firstly, they are very susceptible to diseases of the mouth and secondly, regular dental checkups are essential in managing blood sugar levels. Oral care can lead to health complications of teeth & gums, but there is good news! It’s possible to prevent these issues by practising oral hygiene regularly.
The article below delves into the correlation between diabetes and oral care in detail.
Understanding the relationship between diabetes and oral care
The link between diabetes and oral health is becoming more well-documented. People with uncontrolled diabetes have elevated levels of glucose in their saliva, which helps promote the growth of harmful bacteria. Plaque buildup will happen over time on your teeth and can cause gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath or tooth loss. Ensure you brush regularly and regularly visit your dentist for checkups. Your teeth can be damaged by acids in plaque. Over time, this can damage tooth enamel and dentin, leading to cavities and gum disease.
A study published by The Journal of Dental Research and Aging found that people living with diabetes are at a higher risk for oral problems like dental caries. This can be explained by high levels of glucose in their blood, which also increases their risk for bacterial infection and cell death, adversely affecting healing. It’s not only blood glucose levels but also other diseases and conditions that can further interfere with managing diabetes. White blood cells that help fight bacterial infections are also impaired at high glucose levels which prevents them from effectively fighting these infections.
Tips for better oral health and diabetes management
Diabetes, like many diseases, can be managed and even eliminated. Even though the disease is serious, there are things people with diabetes can do to improve their oral health and prevent problems that might otherwise happen.
- Strive to maintain blood glucose levels within the target range
Blood sugar, often referred to as blood glucose, is a vital part of the body. It is what allows cells to function and revitalize. When it is too high or too low, it can be dangerous. Maintaining a level of blood sugar within the target range has many benefits such as better physical performance and improved moods. If you are diabetic or have prediabetes, then you should track your blood sugar levels regularly and suitably maintain the blood sugar within the desired level.
- Eat healthy meals and become physically active
The average person spends about one-third of their day interacting with a screen. This means that it is important to balance your emotions, diet and physical activity in order to live a healthy life. Many people are using technology to help them stay on track. Apps like Fitbit, Fitocracy, and Lifesum allow you to track your progress towards goals such as weight loss or exercise.
- Brush and floss teeth properly at least twice dailyThe importance of good dental hygiene extends beyond the obvious benefits of healthy teeth and gums. Regular teeth brushing and flossing can improve your oral health, general health, and even your overall mental health.
- Rinse mouth with antiseptic mouthwash at least once a day
Antiseptic mouthwash is one of the most important tools in your health care arsenal. It can help prevent cavities and plaque buildup. In addition, it can kill germs and prevent bad breath.
- Quit smoking (for those who do)
Every day, thousands of people quit smoking for good. However, for many it is a very difficult process. Most quitters find themselves struggling with cravings, headaches and lack of motivation to keep going.
- People who use dentures should clean them daily
Denture use is becoming more and more common in the United States, according to the American Dental Association. Most denture users have no problem cleaning their dentures. However, there are some guidelines that should be followed to make sure that your teeth and gums remain healthy.
- Visit a dentist for regular oral health check-ups.
It is important to have regular oral health check-ups to maintain good dental hygiene. Regular visits to the dentist can prevent serious oral health problems from developing. Many people visit the dentist every six months, but it is always best to visit at least once a year for an annual check-up.
Takeaway
You can reduce the risk of diabetes by practicing proper oral care. These simple techniques like brushing, flossing and rinsing are proven strategies for improving your health overall – and diabetes management is just one way they can help. Laser dentistry is an effective way of improving the overall health and appearance of your teeth. It can remove stains and preserve natural enamel, which will make your teeth have a longer lifespan. Studies have also shown that people who enjoy laser dentistry show better overall facial health.
