Living With Diabetes: Teeth and Gum Problems to Be Aware Of

Studies have revealed that the implications of high blood glucose levels put you at a higher risk of developing oral diseases. Therefore, people with diabetes are more prone to teeth and gum diseases when compared to healthy people.

Our dental experts at Natural Smiles Dental Center in Reston, Virginia, provide specialized dental care for patients with diabetes to help them enjoy good oral health.

This blog elaborates on the connection between diabetes and oral health issues.

What Is the Connection Between Diabetes and Oral Problems?

According to a WHO report, more than 400 million people suffer from diabetes. It is a condition that occurs when your blood sugar, also known as blood glucose, is higher than the recommended level. This condition causes your body to not make enough insulin or not use the insulin it produces to regulate your blood sugar levels.

High blood sugar levels weaken your white blood cells and impair your body’s natural immune response. Therefore, people with diabetes are not just at a higher risk of oral diseases, but they also take longer to heal.

This often leads to:

Tooth Decay

Diabetes does not only raise the sugar levels in your blood. It also increases the sugar levels in your saliva. These high sugar levels fester more acid-producing bacteria that attack the enamel and put decay in motion.

Gum Disease

Diabetes causes your blood vessels to thicken, reducing the flow of blood and nutrients. This can weaken your gums and bones. This can lead to tooth decay as well as periodontal disease.

Dry Mouth 

Diabetes-related dehydration leads to a condition known as dry mouth or xerostomia. In the absence of saliva, your dentine or the inner tooth layer begins to decay. 

How to Take Care of Your Teeth When You Have Diabetes

If you have diabetes, you can keep your mouth healthy by:

• Observing a proper oral hygiene routine that includes brushing for 2 minutes twice a day. Follow this with an antimicrobial mouthwash and daily flossing.
• Visiting your dentist regularly so that they can identify and treat dental issues early.
• Following a healthy lifestyle without smoking and with healthy habits like a nutritious diet, optimum hydration, and exercising. 
• Keeping your teeth and restorations clean to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup.

For personalized dental care for patients with diabetes, schedule an appointment at Natural Smiles Dental Center by calling (703) 595-4405 or visiting us at 1800 Michael Faraday Dr STE 205, Reston, VA 20190.