How Diabetes Affects Oral Health
Living with diabetes can feel like a constant balancing act. But did you know your mouth is another battleground where high blood sugar can wreak havoc? That’s right, diabetes can significantly increase your risk of oral health problems. Let’s dive into the connection between diabetes and your smile, and explore ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy. The Sweet and Sour of Saliva Saliva is your mouth’s superhero. It washes away food particles, fights bacteria, and neutralizes harmful acids. But diabetes can disrupt saliva production, leading to a dry mouth. This “xerostomia” creates a perfect storm for cavities and gum disease. Gum Trouble High blood sugar weakens your body’s natural defenses, making it harder to fight off bacteria that cause gum inflammation (gingivitis). If left unchecked, this can progress to periodontitis, a severe gum infection that damages the tissues and bones supporting your teeth. The Healing Hiccup Unmanaged diabetes can also slow down wound healing. This means recovering from dental procedures like tooth extractions can take longer and be more prone to infection. Fungal Fun-gi Not! Fungal infections like thrush can also become more common with diabetes. These show up as white patches on the tongue or inner cheeks and can be uncomfortable. Brushing Up on Defense The good news is that you have superpowers of your own to fight back! Here are some oral health tips for diabetics:
- Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque, the sticky film harboring cavity-causing bacteria.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist.
- Regular Checkups: Schedule dental checkups and cleanings more frequently, at least every 6 months.
- Don’t Smoke: Smoking worsens gum disease and slows healing.
- Manage Your Blood Sugar: Keeping your blood sugar under control is key to maintaining good oral health.