Diabetes and Oral Health: Unravelling the Link

If someone's sugar levels are dancing often, and the doctor has put them on diabetes medicine, it is time to start being careful about one's overall health, especially oral care.

When sugar levels are consistently higher than normal, it means that the body is either not producing sufficient insulin, or is unable to use the insulin effectively. This is usually in the case of Type 2 diabetes, which is most common.

In the case of Type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system erroneously attacks the insulin producing cells in the pancreas, leading to reduced insulin in the system.

In both cases, the oral health of the person is also compromised, and one should be extra particular about their oral hygiene, to avoid complications.

Some of the issues one is more likely to face, with higher sugar levels are:

Gum Disease / Periodontitis:

People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease. Conversely, those with gum disease / periodontitis are more likely to face challenges while managing sugar levels.

Mouth Dryness:

A person with diabetes starts producing less mouth saliva, which is so essential for neutralizing acids, washing away bacteria and aiding digestion from the moment one starts eating the food and swallowing it. It can lead to bad breath and also increase the risk of cavities, inflammation, gum irritation and infection. 

Delayed healing of wounds:

In case of any procedures or surgery, a person with high sugar levels will face issues of delayed wound healing. This makes the discomfort linger for longer.

Thrush:

Diabetics are more prone to fungal infections, including candidiasis or thrush, due to overgrowth of yeast.

Burning mouth sensation:

Owing to high sugar levels, in a few cases, people may experience an intense burning sensation and discomfort in the mouth.

Care that diabetics need to take:

- A diabetic person should be extra vigilant about managing their sugar levels, as the first step towards better health. This means regular exercise, consulting a trusted nutritionist to manage one's diet, and being regular with medication.

- Diligent oral care and regular dentist visits are a must, to preempt any possible issues that may surface later on.

- Staying hydrated is the key to avoiding mouth dryness, ensuring that sufficient saliva is produced.

- For those with high sugar levels, quitting smoking and tobacco based products is not only helpful, but also imperative, otherwise it increases the risk for gum disease and mouth infections.

- Regular health checks, cleanings and constant monitoring of oral health, can help diabetics prevent several health issues that are directly related to high sugar levels.

Those with diabetes should be extremely particular about their oral hygiene, and immediately meet a trusted dentist in case of any discomfort related to the teeth or gums. The more carefully one takes care of their oral health, the lesser challenges they will face in the long run.

To know more about diabetes related oral health issues from one of our specialists at Apollo, please contact: 18001020288