Here's Why Diabetes Spells Bad News For Your Teeth
Posted on: 19 August 2019
Having diabetes isn't easy. It can cause problems all over your body, and maintaining a healthy blood sugar level can be difficult. However, it's important to know just how diabetes can impact your body in order to help combat its effects. If you have diabetes, you ought to know that your teeth and gums could be at risk because of this disease. Here's how diabetes impacts them.
Sugar
Having a higher blood sugar level increases your risk of developing gum disease. In fact, many people who have diabetes end up experiencing gum disease as a result of uncontrolled blood sugar levels. It's important to do everything you can to maintain a healthy blood sugar range to prevent yourself from developing gum disease. Follow your doctor's directions and maintain a healthy diet to help keep your blood sugar controlled.
Medication
When you have diabetes, you typically get put on some kind of medication to help you to control it. The type of medication differs, and with it, the side effects also change. Unfortunately, many diabetes medications do have side effects that can impact your oral health.
For example, any medication that causes dry mouth could be putting you at a higher risk of developing gum disease and cavities. Saliva helps to flush away excess bacteria, keeping plaque development to a minimum. When you don't have enough of it, bacteria go to town on your teeth and gums, inducing gum disease and cavities due to tartar.
If you aren't sure if your medication can cause gum problems, talk to your dentist or doctor to find out.
Circulation
Lastly, people with diabetes tend to have worse circulation than those who don't. This is a problem for your gums, too.
Healthy gums are pink and that's because of their excellent blood flow. When circulation isn't as good as it should be, gums receive less oxygen, less blood, and are generally in poorer health as a result. They also have a more difficult time fighting off infections, as white blood cells need to get to the region for your immune system to function effectively, but with poor circulation, that's harder.
Taking care of your gums and teeth is a must when you have diabetes. If you aren't already, make sure you're brushing and flossing as often as your dentist recommends. And make an appointment to have a check-up and to discuss your diabetes diagnosis with your dentist. Doing so could make all the difference in maintaining your oral health.
For more information on dental services for diabetics, contact a dentist in your area.
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