If your blood sugar levels aren’t in control, it can take a toll on your dental and overall health. According to the Australian Dental Association, “people with diabetes are at the higher risk for gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Diabetes can affect the ability to combat bacteria that causes gum infection, leading to several dental complications. In addition, gum disease can also affect your body’s blood sugar levels. A study shows that the higher the blood sugar levels, the more likely to have periodontal disease and gum bleeding.
Fortunately, you can prevent most dental problems. If you are diabetic, practising good oral habits is important to keep dental problems at bay. You should inform your dentist Epping if you have diabetes so that they might suggest a personalised treatment accordingly.
Knowing the impacts of diabetes on your dental health can help make informed decisions.
Diabetes and Dental Health
Tooth Decay
When the blood sugar levels are high, the presence of sugar and starch will be high. Our mouth contains many types of bacteria. When sugars and starches interact with the bacteria, a sticky film called plaque is formed on the teeth. The acids in plaque can erode the tooth’s enamel (the outermost structure), exposing the inner parts of the teeth and making it vulnerable to further infection. This can lead to the formation of cavities, pain, and tooth loss over time if not treated at the right time.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. When caught at this stage, gum disease can be reversed and treated. Plaque is the major reason for gingivitis and gum disease. If the plaque isn’t removed from the teeth, it can harden and turn into a substance called tartar. The longer the tartar is present, the more dangerous it is. If your gums are swollen and bleeding, please consult the best dentist in Epping, as it’s one of the signs of gingivitis.
Periodontal Disease
Untreated gingivitis can result in periodontal disease. It’s the advanced stage of gum disease where it can’t be reversed and can result in tooth loss. Periodontitis is severe among people with diabetes as it lowers the ability to resist infection and delays healing. Treating periodontitis with regular dental cleanings can help keep bacteria at bay.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a common problem among diabetic people. Some people with diabetes experience a lack of saliva, a condition called dry mouth. Without saliva, your mouth becomes a breeding ground for bacteria to thrive and infect gums and teeth.
As you see, uncontrolled diabetes can wreak havoc on your dental health. Take diabetes and dental care seriously to prevent dental infections and complications. However, dental problems can be prevented with proper dental care and managing blood sugar levels. For more queries on your dental health, please call our dental clinic Epping.
The author of this article is a renowned dentist in Epping. Along with a team of dental professionals, he provides high-quality dental care. Visit https://www.serenitysmilesdental.com.au/ for more details.
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