Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way our body processes sugar(glucose). People with diabetes have higher than normal levels of sugar in their blood.

This condition increases the risk of developing a range of health issues, including problems with oral health.

What is Oral Health, and Why is It Important?

Oral health refers to the health of your mouth, including your teeth, gums, and tongue. Healthy teeth and gums help us speak, eat, and show our emotions through our facial expressions. Our oral health also impacts our overall health.

Poor oral hygiene can contribute to a range of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and now, as research indicates, diabetes.

How Does Diabetes Impact Oral Health?

Diabetes can affect oral health in several ways:.

1. Gum Disease: Diabetes can impact blood circulation, making gum disease more likely. Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that can form around teeth and gums.

Gum disease can cause inflammation, which can damage the gums and the supporting bone structure. Symptoms can include red, swollen, or bleeding gums that may lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

2. Dry Mouth: Diabetes can cause Xerostomia, or dry mouth. With this condition, our saliva production decreases, and the mouth’s natural cleaning mechanism is compromised.

Without sufficient saliva, the chances of developing tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral infections increase.

3. Oral Thrush: Yeast infections, such as oral thrush, can occur in people with diabetes who have high blood sugar levels. This condition causes white spots or patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, and roof of the mouth.

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It can also cause redness or soreness on the tongue and mouth corners. Symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, a burning sensation in the mouth, or a bad taste in the mouth.

What Can You Do to Help Protect Your Oral Health with Diabetes?

The good news is that taking care of your oral health can be relatively simple. By following a few easy steps, you can reduce the risk of developing oral health problems associated with diabetes:.

1. Manage your blood sugar levels: Consistently manage your blood sugar levels to keep them within the recommended range.

2. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and use dental floss regularly. Pay special attention to the gum line, which is where gum disease often starts.

Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth.

3. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings can help prevent problems before they become more severe. People with diabetes may need to have their teeth cleaned more often than people without diabetes.

4. Consider using an electric toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes may be more effective than manual brushes in removing plaque and improving oral health.

5. Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease and can complicate diabetes management.

Conclusion

Diabetes is a chronic condition that can impact many aspects of our health, including oral health. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, dry mouth, and oral thrush.

Fortunately, maintaining good oral hygiene and managing blood sugar levels can help reduce the risk of oral health problems that may arise when you have diabetes.