Living with diabetes requires careful management of your health, and oral health is no exception. High glucose levels can make it more challenging to maintain good oral hygiene, increasing the risk of diabetes-related oral health complications. Just like monitoring glucose levels and adhering to medication and lifestyle recommendations, dental care should be essential to diabetes management.
Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce plaque, a sticky film. If left untreated, this plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay, cavities and gum disease.
Diabetes can affect periodontal disease in multiple ways. High glucose weakens white blood cells, impairing the body’s ability to fight infections, including the bacteria causing gum disease. Additionally, hormonal changes from type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes increase inflammation and hinder healing, leading to more severe gum disease and slower recovery times.
Conversely, periodontal disease can complicate diabetes management. The inflammation from gum disease makes it harder to control glucose levels, potentially causing complications. Oral infections can also contribute to systemic inflammation, worsening diabetes control.
One of the primary factors contributing to oral health complications in people with diabetes is the presence of high levels of glucose in the saliva. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce plaque, a sticky film. If left untreated, this plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay, cavities and gum disease.
During pregnancy, the body requires more glucose, which increases insulin production. In a healthy pregnancy, the body can effectively manage blood glucose levels. However, changes to bacteria in the mouth may cause complications that can be managed through good oral hygiene. In some pregnancies, insulin resistance becomes too high, leading to gestational diabetes (GDM], causing inflammation in periodontal tissues. This inflammation affects the balance of mouth bacteria, further exacerbating inflammation and impacting blood glucose management.
Implementing good oral hygiene habits and adopting preventive measures can help minimise the risk of oral health problems and maintain a healthy smile.
Pay attention to any changes in your oral health and seek dental care if you experience red, swollen gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, dry mouth, loose teeth or persistent mouth pain. These can be signs of gum disease or other oral health problems that require professional intervention.
Taking care of oral health is essential for everyone, but it becomes even more critical for people with diabetes. Implementing good oral hygiene habits and adopting preventive measures can help minimise the risk of oral health problems and maintain a healthy smile.
Brush and floss regularly: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing once daily to help control food particles and bacteria. It is also important to remember to brush the tongue to remove bacteria.
Visit your dentist for check-ups: Regular dental check-ups are key for preventing oral health problems. Tell your dentist about your diabetes and provide relevant information about your condition, medications and glucose management so they can tailor a treatment plan and provide recommendations. They will also advise you on the frequency of check-ups to include in your diabetes care routine. During these visits, a dental hygienist will clean the teeth professionally to remove plaque or tartar build-up in difficult-to-reach areas, take X-rays if necessary and conduct a thorough examination to detect any signs of gum disease or other oral health issues.
Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting is crucial for both diabetes management and oral health. Smoking increases the risk of gum disease and can worsen diabetes complications. A healthcare professional can provide strategies and support mechanisms to stop smoking.
Medication interactions: In some cases, medications used to manage diabetes or related complications can have oral health implications. For example, certain medications may cause dry mouth as a side effect, increasing the risk of dental problems. Always discuss any medications with your healthcare provider and dentist to ensure they are not adversely affecting your oral health.
Nutritional considerations: A healthy diet is crucial for diabetes management and prevention, and it also plays a role in maintaining good oral health. Nutrient deficiencies can weaken the immune system and affect the health of your teeth and gums. Follow a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients and consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalised guidance.
Understanding the connection between diabetes and oral health, implementing preventive measures, and prioritising regular dental visits can minimise the risk of diabetes-related oral health complications and improve overall well-being. By taking these proactive steps to care for oral health, people with diabetes can keep a healthy smile and enjoy a better quality of life.
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