Diabetes and oral health are closely interlinked. Most research indicates that people who have diabetes are at a higher risk of experiencing oral health issues. This is due to the impact of elevated blood sugar levels in the body, including the mouth. The exact relationship between diabetes is primarily termed bidirectional, which means that diabetes may affect your oral health. Also, major oral health issues may have some implications for diabetes management.
Diabetes and Common Oral Health Issues
Gum Disease
Diabetes is thought to increase the risk of gum disease. Ideally, diabetes leads to an increase in the amount of blood sugar that is in your saliva. This can lead to the growth of more bacteria and the build-up of plaque in your mouth. If these issues are not managed at the right time, it can lead to gum disease.
Dry Mouth
People who have diabetes are pretty prone to dehydration. High blood sugar levels can affect saliva production, which can lead to a dry mouth. Saliva is essential in the mouth to help neutralize acids and cleanse your mouth. If you have a dry mouth, you are at an increased risk of oral infections and cavities.
Poor Healing
When you have uncontrolled sugars in your body, it may affect blood circulation. Blood tends to move slowly, which makes it quite problematic for your body to deliver nutrients to the wounds. As a result, the injuries will take longer or may not even heal.
Oral Thrush
Uncontrolled diabetes leads to low resistance to infection due to dry mouth, which encourages the overgrowth of fungi. This can lead to oral thrush, manifesting as red or ulcerated white patches on your mouth. Thus, ensuring that your sugars are controlled at all times is always fundamental.
Diabetes can lead to various oral health problems. Ensure you control your sugars. Also, if you note any oral health problems, visit our dentist as soon as possible for a checkup.
