There is one symptom that diabetes presents, it affects many diabetics, but it often goes unnoticed. It is something you may notice in your mouth.
Although the connection isn’t always apparent to patients, experts say dental health and diabetes are closely linked. Those with diabetes are more likely to develop periodontal disease (also known as gum disease, or gingivitis) a condition that can lead to pain, gum inflammation, bad breath, or even tooth loss.
In fact, a 2020 study in the journal Frontiers in Endocrinology showed that periodontitis is the sixth most common complication of diabetes, affecting approximately 22% of patients.
Red, swollen gums are a possible sign
Periodontitis is more than just a discomfort in the context of diabetes: it requires medical attention. If you have red, swollen gums and think you may have a blood sugar imbalance, you should not only contact your dentist, but also your general practitioner.
What happens and diabetes is linked to gum health
Diabetics are more likely to develop periodontitis because high blood sugar can affect saliva, allowing harmful bacteria to grow in the mouth.
Diabetes causes changes in the blood vessels. Thicker blood vessels reduce the flow of nutrients and the removal of waste from body tissues. Reduced blood flow can weaken gums and bones. This puts them at greater risk of infection.
Gingivitis can also cause your blood sugar levels to rise, sometimes making other symptoms of diabetes worse. For this reason, those with poorly controlled blood sugar levels and gum disease may find themselves in a cycle of escalating symptoms.
Diabetes: Controlling your blood sugar levels will improve your gum problems
For diabetics with gingivitis and some good news. Controlling your blood sugar and good oral hygiene will help your body fight bacterial infections in your mouth. By managing your diabetes, you should be able to exponentially reduce the symptoms of periodontal disease.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are several ways to lower blood sugar levels. The CDC says that:
-before a meal, blood sugar levels should be between 80 and 130 mg/dL
-two hours following starting a meal, your levels should be below 180 mg/dL
Experts advise:
– become more physically active
-follow an appropriate diabetes meal plan
– check your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor
-take your medicines according to their instructions
Diabetes: Treating gingivitis can also help control blood sugar levels
There is also evidence to suggest that by treating gum disease and maintaining good oral health, you can improve blood sugar levels and diabetes symptoms. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends:
-brush your teeth twice a day with a soft brush
– clean your teeth with dental floss
-use an antimicrobial mouthwash
-clean any dentures every day if you wear them
– visit your dentist for regular check-ups and tell him immediately if you develop symptoms of gingivitis, such as red, swollen gums, or bleeding gums.
Talk to your doctor and dentist for more information on how to break the cycle of symptoms.
Sources: mouthhealthy.org / colgate.com / cedars-sinai.org / bestlifeonline.com .
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