Do you know 280 Australians are diagnosed with diabetes, every day? In the 21st-century, this health condition is gradually turning into an epidemic. Diabetes can hit anyone, irrespective of their age or gender. It is a condition which affects our body’s ability to control blood glucose levels, which give rise to several health complications.
Does Diabetes Impacts My Oral Health?
Yes, diabetes can adversely affect your oral health! People who have diabetes often experience dry mouth as their mouth produces less saliva than the usual amount. Since saliva helps to wash away the food residues and acids, it plays a crucial role in maintaining dental health. Lack of saliva in your mouth lets the food particle settle in your mouth, resulting in tooth decay. That’s why patients suffering diabetes are prone to develop cavities.
Is Gum Disease Related to Diabetes?
It has been observed that patients suffering from diabetes are more susceptible to developing gum disease. If you have diabetes, you’re as much as four times more vulnerable to periodontal disease.
Since diabetes slows down the healing capacity of your body, it might become difficult to treat gum disease properly. Such untreated gum disease can cause bad breath, bleeding gums, and tooth loss.
How Can a Diabetic Person Protect His Dental Health?
If you’re diabetic, it becomes essential to work closely with your dentist. The sooner you address the problem, the higher chances of avoiding any severe complications like tooth loss. If you have diabetes, it’s crucial to be particularly vigilant about visiting your dentist often. It is recommended to visit your dentist for a routine cleaning at least twice a year. If there are any early signs of gum disease or cavities, your dentist can promptly treat it. Apart from regular visits to your dentist, controlling your sugar levels is one of the most essential things you can do to maintain your dental health.
