What is the Relation of Diabetes and Oral Health?

Why are diabetics more likely to have issues with their teeth and gums? 

High blood sugar is the correlation between Diabetes and oral health issues. Oral health conditions are more likely to occur if your blood sugar is poorly regulated. This is because untreated Diabetes weakens white blood cells, which are the body’s primary protection against bacterial infections in the mouth. Diabetes can protect against the development of oral health issues, just as it can protect against the development of significant organ complications of Diabetes, such as eye, heart, and nerve damage, according to studies. 

You need to look out for these signs if you are suffering from Diabetes: 

Symptoms do not necessarily accompany Diabetes-related gum disorder. As a result, it’s essential to schedule and keep daily dental appointments. However, certain signs and symptoms might suggest that you have gum disease. They are as follows: 

Gums that bleed, especially when brushing or flossing
Alterations in the way your teeth seem to fit together (also known as “malocclusion”)
Permanent teeth that tend to feel loose
Red or swollen gums that seem to move away from the teeth, which may cause your teeth to appear longer or wider in appearance 
Constant foul mouthodour, even after brushing

What are the ill effects of diabetes medicine on oral health?

Dry Mouth: 
Uncontrolled/ unregulated Diabetes can decrease saliva (spit) flow, resulting in a dry mouth condition. A dry mouth can consequently lead to ulcers. soreness, infections, and sometimes even tooth decay. 

Periodontitis and Gum inflammation(gingivitis):  
Apart from weakening white blood cells, another complication of Diabetes is that it causes blood vessels to thicken. This reduces the speed of the flow of nutrients and waste products from body tissues, including the mouth. With this combination of events, the body has no control of its ability to fight infections. Since periodontal disease is an infection caused by bacteria, people with uncontrolled Diabetes might experience more frequent and more severe gum disease. 

Slow healing of oral tissue: 
People with uncontrolled Diabetes take time to heal after oral surgery or other dental procedures because blood flow to the treatment site may be hindered. 

Thrush: 
People with Diabetes who frequently take antibiotics to fight off various infections are essentially vulnerable to developing any kind of fungal infection of the mouth and tongue. These fungii thrive on the high glucose levels contained by the saliva of people with uncontrolled Diabetes. Wearing dentures (especially over long periods of time) may also lead to some fungal infections. 

Burning mouth and tongue: The presence of thrush causes this condition. 
Active smokers diagnosed with Diabetes are at an even higher risk — up to 22 times more likely than non-smokers to develop thrush or periodontal disease. Smoking also seems to impact blood flow to the gums, which might affect the healing of wounds in the tissue area. 

Toothpaste for people with diabetes: 

Fortunately, enough, toothpaste would have no natural effect on ones’ Diabetes directly. The most vital thing is to prevent having any gum disease, which would have considerable implications in association with your Diabetes. You may use regular fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly to keep your oral health intact. 

Final Note: 

You can keep your teeth and gums safe by paying close attention to your diabetes’ management and dental health. Visit your dentist regularly to tell him or her about your Diabetes, any signs you’re having, and any drugs you’re taking. This knowledge will assist your dentist in providing the best possible care. Diabetics are slightly at a higher risk of developing oral problems. Regular dental visits are always advised for all diabetics.