Numerous people are diagnosed with diabetes, and it is a diagnosis that can be potentially life-altering. However, millions of people live well with diabetes, often by improving their lifestyle and dietary choices to help keep the condition under control. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, your GP has probably discussed the potential impact on your general health. Still, some people remain unaware that diabetes can also affect oral health in Newcastle. When your diabetes is well controlled, and you maintain healthy blood sugar levels, it helps to protect your teeth and gums.
The Connection with Gum Disease
People with diabetes are more prone to developing gum disease, and having diabetes can mean the condition is a more serious problem. Diabetes can affect your immune system, making you more susceptible to infection, including gum disease. An impaired immune system makes it harder for the body to fight infection effectively, and it takes longer to heal. Additionally, diabetes can cause nerve damage and affect blood flow, making it harder for the body to transport essential nutrients to gums and remove harmful toxins effectively. Gum disease can increase blood sugar levels, further weakening the immune system. Higher blood sugar levels can mean increased glucose in saliva, which is the perfect fuel to feed the bacteria that cause gum disease.
Dry Mouth
A dry mouth is a common problem, especially among people with diabetes, as the disease can result in a lower level of saliva production. When the mouth is drier, there is less saliva to keep it clean and fresh so bacteria can thrive. This increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and other oral infections like thrush.
Tooth Decay
The bacteria that cause tooth decay in Clarington feed on sugars left in the mouth, so if you have diabetes that is poorly controlled, your saliva may have a higher glucose level. This can increase the risk of cavities, toothache and potential tooth loss.
Maintaining a Healthy Mouth with Diabetes
Just because you have been diagnosed with diabetes doesn’t automatically mean that you will develop dental problems. With proper preventive dentistry, you can maintain a healthy smile. Our West Bowmanville Family Dental team can work with you to ensure your oral health is the best possible, for example, prescribing a saliva substitute if dry mouth is a problem. Please make sure we are aware you have been diagnosed with diabetes so we can take it into account when planning your preventive dental care regime.
If we feel your risk of developing dental disease has increased, we might recommend more frequent checkups and cleanings to help prevent and detect any signs of disease. More frequent hygiene appointments can be very useful if you are suffering from dry mouth in Courtice, and removing plaque and tartar buildup is an excellent way to help protect your dental health.
Good oral care at home is vitally important, so brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Using the right brushing techniques is important, so if you are unsure, please ask us for useful tips and advice. We can also advise on the best type of toothbrush and toothpaste.
Daily flossing is equally important; we know it is a task many people struggle to achieve regularly. However, when you know how, flossing is easy, and we can demonstrate the right way to floss or discuss other tools to try.
Ensure you monitor your blood sugar levels and control them as well as possible, following your GP’s advice and taking medication as prescribed. Successfully controlling and treating your diabetes is key to maintaining good overall and oral health.