Brush up on your dental tips for a healthy smile.
Diabetes, a metabolic disease, is a condition in which the body does not properly process food for use of energy, causing blood glucose or blood sugar levels to stay above normal. It can affect any part of the body. Typically, broken down as Type 1 and Type 2, diabetes can be found in both sexes.
Research shows that diabetic patients are more susceptible to oral infections and gum diseases. Poor blood glucose control makes germs in the mouth destroy your gums and the bone around your teeth, resulting in poor healing. Oral health and hygiene is highly imperative for diabetics as oral problems tend to be of greater severity in diabetics than non-diabetics. If left untreated, diabetes can take a toll on your mouth. Here’s how:
Dental Problems and Prevention for diabetics
From burning mouth syndrome, fungal infections to dry mouth (xerostomia), diabetic patients of both Type 1 and Type 2 are at a higher risk of dental decay and bacterial infections in the mouth.
Diabetics should make sure their blood glucose levels do not fluctuate too much. Hyperglycemia which is a result of high blood glucose can cause dry mouth and other related problems. Hypoglycemia, when blood glucose level is low, can have serious consequences too.
Keeping a constant check on blood sugar levels is the key. The higher the blood sugar level, the higher is the risk of cavities, gingivitis or early gum disease and advanced gum disease or periodontists.
Diabetics should ensure their medical and dental care providers are aware of their medical history and periodontal status.
Dental DOs and DONTs for Diabetics:
Diabetes patients can do a lot to prevent or slow down dental problems. To begin with:
- Practice daily oral care with brushing and flossing
- Use a mouthwash without alcohol content
- Monitor your blood sugar level regularly
- Stay up-to-date with frequent dental checkups (every 6 months)
- Keep your dentist in the loop about your diabetes condition
- Eat healthy with green veggies and whole grains
- Exercise regularly
- Report any early signs of gum disease to your dentist
- Avoid smoking
Did you know?
Elevated blood sugar levels increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, tooth loss, dry mouth, and several oral infections among diabetic patients.
Here are some quick home remedies to control or prevent minor dental problems:
- Fluoride, also known as nature’s cavity fighter, helps to repair early stages of tooth decay, strengthens your teeth’s enamel and prevents cavities in both children and adults.
- Clove oil is an age-old home remedy with anesthetic and anti-bacterial properties that can help with mouth maladies like tooth ache.
- Tulsi also known as holy basil has anti-bacterial properties. Chewing these leaves prevents plague build-up and eliminates bad breath.
Proper dental care is crucial, especially for diabetics. Remember, good oral care helps fight the living bacteria invading in the gums. It’s time to culminate dental difficulties, and celebrate a germ-free mouth!
