Diabetes can have a number of negative effects on oral health, including the shrinking and inflammation of the gums. It may be difficult to maintain healthy teeth if you have diabetes. Diabetes is not just about blood sugar levels; it’s also about maintaining healthy body functions in general. Diabetes often includes mouth, jaw, and even brain problems. In fact, people with diabetes are more likely to have oral problems than others and health specialists suggest a diet low in sugar can help remedy this.
Diabetics who have diabetes may be at an increased risk of oral problems due to the importance of maintaining healthy gums. This article explores this relationship in detail and provides more information related to control over blood sugar levels and the management of a dental health condition.
How does diabetes affect oral health?
Anyone with diabetes is at risk for oral health problems. People with diabetes are at an increased risk for a number of oral-related problems; high blood sugar levels, dental cavities and gum disease, among others. High levels of sugar in saliva can be a cause for concern because it can facilitate the growth of harmful bacteria. These bacteria interact with starches and sugars present in food & beverages to create plaque on your teeth. Mould and decay are two symptoms of plaque buildup on the teeth. This can lead to cavities, gum disease, and ultimately tooth loss
As diabetes becomes more widespread, it also increases the risk of gum disease. With high blood sugar levels & increased bacterial infections, this is a vicious cycle that keeps people with diabetes from living a normal life. Elevated blood sugar levels also weaken the white blood cells. That makes it harder to manage gum disease.
3 major oral problems associated with diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic disease that can lead to oral health complications and gum diseases such as periodontitis and gingivitis. According to a study published in the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology, anecdotal evidence suggests that patients have an increased risk of developing these complications.
- Cavities
Caries, also known as tooth decay or cavities, are one of the most common oral problems that particularly affect children, adolescents and the elderly. It is characterized by permanent damage to their teeth’s hard surface. Gum disease is often caused by a number of factors, including plaque buildup & bacterial colonization. Diet, which includes sugary and starchy foods, neglecting teeth cleaning, and the presence of oral bacteria and dental plaque.
People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are at a much higher risk of developing cavities. Many factors, including how much sugar they consume, how many treats they eat, and the amount of food that cause cavities in people with diabetes.
- Gingivitis
This is also known as early-stage gum disease. In this condition, plaque accumulates on the gums and hardens into calculus (dental) to form a substance called tartar. Tartar collects bacteria and provides a protective shield around it. This decay further makes it harder to remove with oral hygiene at home or in-office treatments at a dentist’s. Tartar is a type of bacterial gum disease that causes inflammation and swelling, which can cause mouth sores.
Many people are at risk for developing gingivitis and there are even cases of it being reported in developing and undeveloped countries. Does eating too much sugar make bacteria grow faster, and does poor hygiene lead to poor oral health? These questions were raised in a recent study that investigated the cause of this phenomenon. This research suggested that the cause is due to high levels of sugar in saliva. This is because saliva provides a favourable environment for the growth of microorganisms that feed off sugar, which in turn releases compounds that are important for brain function.
- Periodontitis
If you don’t take care of your gums, the build-up of plaque and other harmful substances in their pockets can cause problems like cavities and bad breath. If you have periodontitis, it’s important you schedule a dental appointment and make sure that the work gets done right away. Early treatment can prevent teeth loss in the long run.
Diabetes & periodontitis both make you more susceptible to infection and healing. One in two people with diabetes in India also has some amount of periodontal disease.
Symptoms of gum disease in diabetics
For people with diabetes, it is crucial to recognize the symptoms of gum disease early on to avoid severe complications. Therefore, they should keep an eye out for the following symptoms of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis):
- Swollen or puffy gumsSwollen or puffy gums is a sign that your oral healthcare routine needs to be improved and it can also indicate the presence of a disease. Puffiness can be caused by inflammation, infection, dryness, or irritation.
- Dark red or purplish gums diseasesGingivitis is a common gum disease that is characterized by red, swollen gums. This condition can cause bleeding and discomfort when eating or brushing your teeth. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that results in the loss of the natural support for the teeth.
- Bad breath and mouth odourBad breath and mouth odour may be embarrassing, but they can also be dangerous. Mouth odour is caused by various factors such as poor oral hygiene, gum disease and diabetes. Bad breath is usually from a combination of things including halitosis (bad breath), bacterial growth in the mouth, unclean teeth or excessive consumption of alcohol.
- Gums that bleed easilyDental health has been a growing concern for young people. Gum disease is one of the most common problems that can cause bleeding and pain during brushing. Dental health professionals recommend regular, professional cleanings as well as natural treatments like oil pulling or coconut oil gargling.
- Gums that feel soft when touchedWhen you put your hand in a bowl of chewing gum, you expect it to feel soft. But what about the gums that are supposed to help protect your teeth?
- Receding gumsDental problems are the most common of all health problems. They affect people in different ways and have a significant impact on their quality of life. Dental problems can be painful and hard to live with, so it is necessary to visit a dental clinic or dentist as soon as possible.
- Experiencing pain while chewing diseaseWith the ever-growing popularity of gum, it’s important for chewing disease patients to know the risks involved in chewing gum. There are several dangers to this popular habit, including inflammation, oral health problems and oral cancer.
- New gaps developing between teethThe gaps between most people’s teeth are widening, which is causing problems. This is because there has been a technological shift, where people are wearing less and less of their natural teeth due to the fact that the gap has become a trend.
- Spitting out blood when brushing or flossing teethThe act of spitting out blood, after brushing or flossing teeth is a common occurrence. Most people know that this is not a cause for concern, but it can be particularly alarming if you are experiencing any pain when spitting. One possible cause of blood-spitting could be gum disease which could be treated by visiting your dentist and seeing if a root canal may be necessary.
- Problem due to Loss of one or more teeth.Some people may experience loss of one or more teeth. There are many problems which can occur when a person loses teeth, including chewing, speaking, and socializing. In addition to this, dental health is compromised and infections may be more likely to occur.
How to prevent oral problems caused by diabetes?
Experts say that it is possible for people with diabetes to prevent or delay oral problems. Here are some of the measures that professional writers can take to reduce their risk:
- Keeping blood sugar levels under controlKeeping blood sugar levels under control is the key to good health. Too much or too little insulin in your blood can cause many problems, such as diabetes or hypoglycemia. It can even lead to organ failure and death. Check your blood sugar levels regularly to make sure you’re managing them properly.
- Brushing teeth and flossing teeth twice a dayAlthough brushing teeth and flossing teeth twice a day is not a new idea, it is becoming popular due to the recent advancements in oral health technology. Today, many people are turning to these new technologies to make their routine easier and much less time-consuming.
- Rinse your mouth with antiseptic mouthwash at least once a day.It is important to keep your mouth in check. Without proper care, bacteria can build up and cause plaque buildup. This plaque buildup can lead to cavities, gum problems and other health issues. To prevent these issues from occurring, it is vital that you rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash.
- Those who smoke should quit smokingSmoking is a health hazard that leads to many major health problems. It’s something that we should all quit for the sake of our own and our loved one’s wellbeing. Quitting smoking can be difficult, especially if you have been smoking for a long time. However, there are ways to make it easier. Some people find it more convenient to get help from an online cigarette cessation program like Smoke-Free in just a few minutes per day, rather than
- People who wear dentures should clean them dailyMany people who wear dentures are often hesitant to clean them. They worry about damaging the dentures and ruin their smiles. There is also a risk of infection because if the toothbrush is not cleaned properly, it can harbor germs that cause gum disease and bad breath.
- Visit a dentist at least every six months.
Conclusion
People with diabetes, who are prone to cavities and gum disease, are more at risk than others. The risk is especially high for diabetics who have uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Keeping your blood sugar levels in line and taking care of your teeth are both important for managing diabetes. The two are highly correlated and can increase or decrease the risks involved.
Keeping your oral and overall health in check helps greatly with preventing or delaying diabetes, which can cause a host of health problems, including oral issues. Improving your personal care — sleep, diet quality/quantity, cardiovascular exercise — is also essential for improved oral quality. Some of the many benefits of visiting a dentist each year include preventing dental issues, having healthier teeth & gums, and potentially reducing your risk for developing diabetes.
Oral care is an important aspect of keeping your teeth healthy. A good toothpaste will help keep them clean and safe from diseases like cavities. Colgate is one of a few toothpaste companies that make products specifically for people with diabetes. Their toothpaste is one example of this – it helps reduce pain and heal certain types of gum disease. Colgate has used the best dentists, diabetologists, & ayurvedic experts to come up with a unique formula that can kill bacteria in the mouth. This unique formula can complete your oral care regimen for diabetes management.
