“Diabetes and Oral Health: How to Prevent Gum Disease and Tooth Decay”

2023-05-13 19:00:00


Enas Al-Banna

Saturday, May 13, 2023 10:00 PM

Diabetes is a condition that is usually lifelong and causes high sugar levels It is not yet known exactly what causes type 1 diabetes, while type 2 is often linked to lifestyle factors such as being overweight and not exercising enough.

As with any medical condition, the sooner you spot the signs of diabetes, the sooner you can get the treatment and support you need.

According to the “Express” website, diabetes is a condition in which the body is unable to control blood sugar levels. High blood sugar can lead to excess sugar in saliva, which can damage your teeth and gums.

In addition, people with diabetes often take medications that have side effects that can cause dry mouth, as well as decreased saliva production due to decreased function of the salivary glands.

Reducing saliva can have a detrimental effect on our oral health due to saliva’s protective and cleansing ability, which increases the chances of gum disease and tooth decay. A dentist can check for common signs and symptoms of diabetes problems in the mouth.

These include:

Red, swollen or bleeding gums

Gum recession

Pulling the gums away from your teeth

Loose teeth

Increase the distances between the teeth

dry mouth

Bad breath that does not go away when you brush your teeth.

If you notice any of these signs, you should speak to your dentist.

Gum disease and diabetes

Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is the most common oral health problem related to diabetes.

Gingivitis develops when plaque and tartar build up on your teeth near the gum line, irritating and inflaming your gums. People with gingivitis and diabetes are more likely to experience complications from diabetes.

Diabetics need to reduce the risk of developing gingivitis to reduce the risk of further diabetes-related problems.

As a result, your gums may become red and swollen and may bleed easily. If left untreated, gum disease can progress to periodontitis and eventually lead to tooth loss.

“If your dentist catches it early, gingivitis is easier to control. People with type 2 diabetes are also three times more likely than those without dental problems, such as thrush and burning mouth syndrome.”

Maintaining your oral health

To keep your teeth and gums healthy, especially if you have diabetes, the following is recommended:

Brush your teeth twice a day

Clean between the teeth

Brush before bed

Use a tongue cleaner

Attend regular dental check-ups.

Along with good oral practice, taking positive steps in your lifestyle will reduce your risk of developing periodontitis, consider quitting smoking, reducing stress, exercising, and eating a balanced diet.”

Other symptoms of diabetes include:

Feeling very thirsty

Urinating more than usual, especially at night

Feeling very tired

Weight loss and muscle mass loss

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