Diabetes Impacts on Oral Health: How to Protect Your Teeth
Diabetes Impacts on Oral Health: How to Protect Your Teeth
Managing diabetes can be a difficult task. Proper dental care is an important part of maintaining good overall health and wellbeing for people with diabetes. If you have diabetes, you are about three times more likely to have periodontal (gum disease). The good news is that managing gum disease can improve outcomes for people with diabetes.
This article will provide tips on how to protect your teeth if you are living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, helping you avoid cavities and gum disease.
Diabetes and Gum Disease
One of the most common oral health problems associated with diabetes is gum disease, also known as periodontitis. People with diabetes are more prone to developing gum disease. Although the linkage is complicated, a way of simplifying it is that high levels of glucose in the blood can weaken the body's ability to fight off infection. This can lead to inflammation and damage to the gums and supporting tissues. Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
Diabetes and Dry Mouth
Another oral health problem that is more common in people with diabetes is dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. Dry mouth is a condition in which the body does not produce enough saliva. This can lead to a range of problems such as difficulty swallowing, speaking, and tasting food. Saliva is important for maintaining oral health because it helps to neutralise acid in the mouth and wash away food particles. Without enough saliva, the mouth is more prone to infection and tooth decay.
Slower Healing Time
Diabetes can also affect the healing process in the mouth. People with diabetes may have a slower healing time after dental procedures or be more prone to developing infections in the mouth. This is because high levels of glucose in the blood can weaken the immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off infection.
Managing Blood Sugars
There are several steps that people with diabetes can take to maintain good oral health and prevent problems from developing. One of the most important is to manage blood sugar levels through a healthy diet, exercise, and, if necessary, medications. Keeping blood sugar levels in a healthy range can help reduce the risk of oral health problems and other complications related to diabetes.
If your diabetes is not well controlled, it is important to tell your dentist, as this has an impact on the timing and precautions required for safe treatment.
Brush Teeth Twice a Day with Fluoridated Toothpaste
Proper dental care is necessary to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Consider adding an electric or battery operated toothbrush. These toothbrushes can make it easier to effectively remove plaque build-up on your teeth and around the gum line. Be sure to floss (or use an interdental cleaner) at least once a day as well, as this helps to remove plaque from between your teeth where brushing can’t reach.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Diabetes Australia recommends regular dental check-ups with a qualified professional. Some people with active gum disease will need to attend more regularly (4-monthly) whereas others can be seen 6 or 12-monthly depending on their unique circumstances. Your dentist will be able to monitor potential issues that may arise and provide useful tips to protect your oral health.
Avoid Smoking and Drinking Alcohol
Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption both negatively affect people with diabetes. Tobacco use can lead to dry mouth, periodontal disease, tooth loss, and other oral problems for people with diabetes. Reducing or quitting smoking and limiting alcohol use can help reduce the risk of oral health problems caused by diabetes. If you need help quitting smoking, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist, or ask your doctor about options that are available.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3228943/https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/dry-mouth-diabetes#causeshttps://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/living-with-diabetes/preventing-complications/dental-health/
