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Whether you’re dealing with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, the condition affects your body’s ability to process sugar and this ultimately results in high blood sugar levels. Most patients and caregivers understand that this can increase the risk of various complications, especially conditions such as heart disease, nerve damage, visual impairment, and chronic kidney disease. However, the threat of oral disease or dental health problems is often overlooked.
Diabetes & Your Mouth
Diabetes can itself cause dryness of the mouth and this can also be a side effect of some medications used to treat diabetes. This in turn increases the risk of plaque buildup and cavities as saliva normally protects the teeth. As plaque buildup and levels of oral bacteria rise, there is also a high risk of gingivitis or gum inflammation. Diabetes also affects immunity and wound healing, so you are more susceptible to oral infections and can suffer from ulcers that take longer to heal and can get infected.
The most serious risk is that of periodontitis, which is an advanced form of gum disease that develops when gingivitis isn’t dealt with effectively. This actually results in destruction of the soft tissue and bone, which can result in tooth loss, more serious infections, and harder to control sugar levels. Periodontal disease affects roughly 22 percent of all diabetes patients.
An Essential Diabetes Dental Hygiene Routine
Protecting against the risk of dental disease with diabetes doesn’t require drastic action. It simply requires a consistent and disciplined dental hygiene routine. Here is what such a routine for diabetes dental care looks like:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day, as well as after having any meals or snacks. Make sure to brush gently, using a soft-bristled brush or an electric toothbrush. It is also advisable to replace your toothbrush frequently.
- Try to floss your teeth at least once a day to prevent or limit the build-up of plaque on your teeth.
- Make it a point to visit your dentist regularly and keep him informed about your diabetes. Dental checks are recommended at least twice a year for diabetes patients and can include dental cleaning and other treatments, as well as check-ups using X-rays.
- Be alert for early warning signs of dental disease, especially gum inflammation. If you notice any signs of gum disease, such as soreness, swelling, or bleeding, report these symptoms to your dentist immediately as timely treatment makes all the difference.
- If you are a smoker, it is extremely important that you quit the habit as soon as possible because smoking increases the risk of almost every diabetes complication, including dental disease. Smokers are more likely to suffer periodontal disease and premature tooth loss despite following dental care routines.
The single most important step that you can take to safeguard against diabetes dental health complications such as gingivitis or periodontitis would be to monitor and control blood sugar levels effectively. Managing diabetes requires lifelong care and alertness, so don’t wait until signs of dental disease appear to begin following an oral care routine.
