Diabetes and Oral Health

Diabetes is a medical condition that is associated with an abnormal increase or decrease of blood glucose in the body. Diabetes affects various organs in the body such as kidney, eyes, and lungs. In addition, there is a relationship between diabetes and oral health. This article will take an in-depth look at how diabetes affects the oral health of diabetic patients and how both of these medical conditions can be controlled and managed accordingly.

The Connection Between Diabetes and Oral Diseases
People with diabetes have high or low levels of blood glucose in their bodies, a condition that acts as a thriving place for bacteria growth. About one-third of patients who have diabetes have severe periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a gum disease that affects the gum tissue and the bone around the teeth. Generally, this disease makes the bone and the gum brittle enough for them to break down hence losing teeth in the process. Patients with poorly controlled diabetes are 2.9 times more likely to suffer from periodontal gum disease as compared to patients with adequately controlled diabetes.

People who have diabetes are more susceptible to bacterial infection as compared to individuals with no history of diabetes. This can be attributed to the fact that, the high level of sugar in the body, leads to the coating of the immune-fighting body cells as well as affecting the circulation of blood. The constrained blood circulation minimizes the supply of blood and mineral salts to the oral cavity of the patient. The moment the gums lack adequate nutrients as a result of poor circulation, their ability to fight off infection is significantly reduced leading to gum diseases.

Taking Care of Oral health in Diabetic Patients
Patient’s with a combination of diabetes and oral diseases require more specialized medical care as compared to those with no diabetes. When visiting your dentist, make sure that he/she is well-versed with your diabetic medical condition. If you are looking for a team of qualified dentists to take care of your oral health, look no further than Cardinal Dental Group.

Cardinal Dental Group has a team of highly-qualified dentists who are specialized in cosmetic general, restorative dentistry and advanced technology. In patients suffering from gingivitis or periodontitis due to diabetes, Cardinal Dental Group will restore your gums and teeth as well manage your diabetic medical condition. With an experienced team of doctors, you are guaranteed the best dental services to suit your medical condition (s).

Apart from seeking professional help, you can take care of your oral hygiene in a professional manner. For instance, you can schedule a dentist visit after every three months, drink fluoridated water to prevent tooth decay, use anti-plaque mouth rinse to prevent the accumulation of plaque, keep your dentures clean, and finally, keep your blood glucose in target range.

Signs and Symptoms in Your Gums That Can Indicate Diabetes

Many patients especially those who have not been diagnosed with diabetes may present some signs and symptoms that may prompt a dentist to request a diabetic test. Some of the signs and symptoms are as follows.

• Swollen and bleeding gums.
• Oral burning inside your mouth due to uncontrolled blood glucose.
• Taste impairment due to the destruction of taste buds.