Diabetes and your Dental Health

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you have diabetes you are more likely to develop problems in your mouth, and this is more so if you have poor glycaemic control. Conversely, diabetics with poor oral health can experience difficulties controlling blood glucose levels.

Dental Problems Linked with Diabetes     

• Gum disease
• Fungal Infections
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Gum Disease

Diabetics of any age, especially those with poor glycaemic control, are more likely to develop gum disease, which is an infection of the gums and bone that hold your teeth in place.

The mildest form of gum disease is called Gingivitis and can be reversed if treated and ongoing preventative care is implemented. Gingivitis is caused by a build-up of plaque at the gum-line where the tooth and gum meet. Plaque is a sticky film or bacteria.

The more destructive form of gum disease is called periodontitis and often develops from untreated gingivitis. If susceptible the body responds to the bacteria resulting in the gums shrinking away from the teeth and the destroying the bone that holds the teeth firm. Any damage done by Periodontitis cannot be reversed but treatment can prevent further destruction.

Warning signs of Gum Disease:

• Red and/or swollen gums
• Bleeding gums – often during or after brushing or flossing
• Bad breath
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Gums pulling away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots
• Loose teeth
• Teeth that have moved, or look longer than they used to

Fungal Infections

High blood glucose increase susceptibility to fungal infections such as thrush which is can be seen as patches of white film or small red dots on the cheeks, tongue or roof of your mouth, It can be painful.

Dry Mouth

High blood glucose can cause a reduction in saliva flow and a dry mouth. This in turn can cause an increase in tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.

 

HOW TO KEEP YOUR MOUTH AND BODY HEALTHY

• Manage you blood glucose levels
• If you smoke consider quitting – ask (your doctor, nurse, dentist, hygienist) about help with quitting
• Make healthy food choices
• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Clean between your teeth at least once a day with floss or inter-dental brushes
• Examine your mouth regularly for dryness, bleeding and/or swollen gums, white or red patches, soreness
• Have a dental check-up at least annually so any problems that develop can be treated early.