How Diabetes Affect Oral Health?

Diabetes is a condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar. Over time, high blood sugar can damage nerves and blood vessels. This can lead to serious health problems, including problems with your oral health.

How Does Diabetes Affect Your Mouth?

Diabetes increases the risk of infection and other conditions in your mouth, including gum disease, tooth decay, dry mouth, and thrush.

The impact of diabetes on your oral health is two-fold. First, diabetes creates high blood glucose levels that feed the bacteria that cause cavities. High glucose levels also reduce the body's resistance to infection. Second, the medications used to manage diabetes can cause additional side effects in the mouth. Examples include dry mouth and increased tooth sensitivity. This can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Certain oral problems can make it more difficult for people with diabetes to manage their disease. For example, if you have untreated gum disease, it can make it harder to control your blood sugar level by making it harder for your pancreas to create insulin.

Research shows that people who have diabetes and signs of periodontal disease are more likely to have other health problems, such as high blood pressure. Having better oral health can help you maintain your overall health. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash daily. Make regular visits to the dentist. During your visit, your dentist will check your mouth for any signs of mouth cancer and will make sure your teeth and gums are healthy.

Preventing Damaged Teeth

People with diabetes should visit the dentist more often, as diabetics are more likely to develop oral health problems than those without diabetes. Not having enough saliva or a dry mouth can be a problem because saliva helps your body fight bacteria. Without enough saliva, you may increase your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease.

Gum Disease and Diabetics

Patients with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease. This means that diabetics are more likely to see the effects of ingrown teeth, gum recession, and more. Those with diabetes may need more frequent visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups for an in-depth look at their mouth. This can help keep their smile healthy and free of oral problems.

In diabetic patients, however, there is a higher risk of periodontitis – a severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. The disease occurs when bacteria build up and releases toxins that irritate the gums and cause infection. This can lead to severe consequences such as bone loss in the jaw and loss of a tooth. This is why it's so important to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly if you have a chronic health condition like diabetes. You should also be sure to tell your dentist about your health history so that he or she can monitor your oral health accurately.

Preventing Dental Problems With a Diabetic Diet

In addition to regular dental care, you can help ward off oral health issues by sticking to a healthy diet. This includes getting plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, while also limiting your consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. Limiting your intake of sugary foods and drinks can help prevent tooth decay and cavities, as well as provide other health benefits as well. Talk to your dentist if you notice any changes in your oral health or if you're having complications with your diabetes so that you can discuss treatment options with a professional.

Talk to our dentist in Austin today to find out which treatments are best for you. They will help you design your ideal treatment plan so you can achieve the beautiful smile you've been dreaming of. Contact About Smiles at 2555 Western Trails Blvd., Suite 104, Austin, TX 78745, or call (512) 444-5577.