Diabetes Mellitus is a medical condition characterized by high blood sugar levels in the body. If left untreated, it can cause various complications such as cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage, kidney failure, and eye damage.

An area that is often overlooked in the management of diabetes is oral care. However, it should be noted that oral care is critical to managing Diabetes Mellitus. This article explores the relationship between oral care and diabetes and why it is essential to take care of your oral health if you have diabetes.

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels in the body. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, while Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body fails to use insulin effectively. Type 2 diabetes is the more prevalent type, accounting for about 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide.

Diabetes can cause several complications that affect different parts of the body, such as the heart, kidneys, nerves, and eyes. One of the less known complications of diabetes is its effect on oral health.

Oral Health and Diabetes

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing dental problems than those without the condition. Diabetes can affect oral health in two ways:.

1. Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can cause swelling, redness, and bleeding. Over time, the infection can lead to tooth loss.

People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease because diabetes restricts blood flow to the gums, making it harder to fight off infections. In addition, high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes create a favorable environment for bacteria to grow, leading to the development of gum disease.

2. Tooth Decay

People with diabetes are also prone to tooth decay. Higher sugar levels in the saliva create a favorable environment for bacteria to grow, leading to tooth decay.

Furthermore, diabetes can cause dry mouth, which reduces the production of saliva in the mouth. Saliva plays a critical role in washing away food particles that can lead to tooth decay.

The Importance of Oral Care in Managing Diabetes

The link between oral health and diabetes is not immediately apparent, but it is vital to understand that maintaining good oral health is essential to managing diabetes. Here are some reasons why:.

1. Preventing Gum Disease

Gum disease is preventable with proper oral care, such as regular brushing and flossing. Diabetes does not have to be a death knell for healthy teeth and gums.

Therefore, people with diabetes should prioritize taking care of their teeth and gums to prevent gum disease.

2. Controlling Blood Sugar Levels

By keeping oral health in check, people with diabetes can reduce the risk of gum disease and stabilize their blood sugar levels.

Studies have shown that people with good oral health are better able to manage their blood sugar levels compared to those with poor oral health.

3. Decreasing the Risk of Other Complications

People with diabetes are already at a higher risk of developing heart, kidney, and nerve damage. Maintaining good oral health can help reduce the risk of experiencing these complications.

Managing Oral Health with Diabetes

The following practices can help people with diabetes maintain good oral health:.

1. Regular Brushing and Flossing

Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

People with diabetes should be mindful of any changes in their gums, such as swelling, bleeding, or redness, and seek medical attention from a dentist or medical professional.

2. Controlling Blood Sugar Levels

Managing blood sugar levels is critical to preventing gum disease and tooth decay. A healthcare provider can help create a treatment plan for managing blood sugar levels.

3. Regular Dental Checkups

Regular dental checkups can help detect any dental problems early and prevent them from getting worse.

People with diabetes should notify their dentists of their diagnosis because diabetes can affect oral health, making it necessary to monitor the mouth’s health more closely.

Conclusion

Good oral health is essential for everyone, but it is particularly critical for people with diabetes. Diabetes can cause gum disease and tooth decay, which can lead to other medical problems.

Therefore, people with diabetes should prioritize maintaining good oral health to manage their condition better. Regular dental checkups, controlling blood sugar levels, and proper oral care practices like brushing and flossing can go a long way in preventing gum disease and tooth decay.