Diabetes and Dental Health - What's the Connection?

Diabetes can cause gum disease, in addition to several other complications. Diabetes makes it challenging for the immune system to work in good order, and the mouth becomes a perfect spot for breeding germs. It is also believed that gum disease can cause diabetes to be more difficult to restrain.

The germs that promote gum disease likewise make a substance that alters how the cells process carbohydrates in the body. Several studies also suggest that the bacteria that causes gum disease increases blood glucose levels in addition to insulin resistance.

If diabetes is not controlled, it can cause numerous consequences with dental hygiene. One problem that diabetics are forced to confront is periodontal disease. Abnormal glucose levels in the blood indirectly results in a decrease in saliva in the mouth which produces the dry mouth symptom. With this decrease in saliva



production, the diabetic has difficulty in neutralizing salivary sugars, which leads mouth ulcers. Controlling blood glucose levels plays a significant role in controlling diabetes and maintaining healthy teeth and gum tissue.

Since diabetics commonly suffer from inadequate blood circulation, they may not experience any pain or irritation until their dental troubles have progressed to being serious. At this point they may encounter bleeding, pus and swelling in the gums. The teeth may start to shift and those who wear dentures might notice that they don't fit properly anymore. The restricted blood flow to the gums can eventually lead to severe toothaches which in turn can make eating difficult. Then, the diabetic is more prone to not eating properly which makes diabetes even more difficult to control.

Should you experience any of the above, you should visit your dental practitioner right away. And, you might need to schedule dental checkups as frequently as every ninety days.

Practicing good dental hygiene is important for everyone. Daily brushing with a soft toothbrush and flossing are essential. Try to brush and floss at least twice a day and rinse thoroughly. Also, a good mouthwash should be used as often as possible to kill germs.

A vast majority of the adult population experiences some type of dental problem in the course of their life. Oral hygiene is essential to preventing tooth decay and the eventual loss of teeth. The diabetic must confront the circulatory problems that come with it and realize that they are in greater danger of developing some type of dental disease. It's vitally important that everyone, but especially diabetics, take good care of their teeth and gums and monitor their blood pressure sugar.