When you have blood sugar, it is important to take care of your oral health. As diabetes is interlinked with oral health, it reduces the ability to fight any infection and slows down healing. So, there is a need to take additional care of your health, especially your gums and teeth.
The effects of diabetes on oral health
We gathered the common oral problems that diabetics face according to a dental clinic in Panjagutta.
Cavities: High blood sugar levels increase the growth of bad bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria forms plaque on the teeth gradually. The acids from the food and bacteria attack the enamel coating developing cavities. Also, sensitivity to certain foods develops.
Gingivitis: When the plaque on the teeth remains unattended, it leads to tartar. Tartar results in hardened gumline under the teeth. This plaque and tartar are tough to treat in the case of diabetic patients. Gradually, they affect the gum base called the gingiva resulting in painful, swollen and bleeding gums. The condition is gingivitis.
Periodontitis: A dentist in Madhapur says that ignoring gingivitis can lead to a more risky condition, periodontitis. The untreated plaque and tartar affect the soft gum tissue supporting the teeth. With time, the gumline recedes loosening the teeth. Ironically, periodontitis raises blood sugar levels further in diabetics making them difficult to control.
Other effects of diabetes on oral health include fungal infections, mouth ulcers, dry mouth, tooth abscesses, etc.
Tips to maintain oral hygiene for diabetic people
A dental hospital in Miyapur lists out some to-dos to help control the above-mentioned conditions. For people with high blood sugar levels, these are like miracle rescue points. Check them out here.
Brushing and flossing: Brushing twice a day helps flush out the plaque and tartar buildup. Similarly, flossing removes the hidden debris from the teeth keeping them healthy. Diabetes patients should be keener on oral hygiene.
Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water prevents dry mouth. Thus, keeping bacteria away.
No sugar: For diabetics, sugar is a big no. If consumed, the bacteria doubles up and increases plaque buildup. So, eating nutrient-rich food is good.
Visit the dentist: It is important you visit your dentist regularly for keeping track of oral infections. Up on advice, in-clinic scrapping off the plaque buildup is necessary for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Keep updating your dentist about your sugar levels and let him plan the treatment accordingly.
Conclusion: When you put efforts to control diabetes and maintain oral hygiene, you get a long lifeline in return.