(ThyBlackMan.com) With the increasing cases of diabetes rising throughout the world people are aware of the fact that diabetes is a condition that causes one to develop irregular blood glucose levels. However, what most people do not know is that these irregular blood glucose levels can lead to an increased risk of tooth problems and gum disease. That’s right and this is simply the case because individuals that suffer from diabetes have a lowered resistance to infection. In addition to this, their bodies might not heal as easily as a healthy individual. If you are suffering from diabetes, you need to be acutely aware of the connections between diabetes and oral health.
Paying Attention to Oral Health Can Alert You
Diabetes is a condition that is becoming more and more well known because it is so widespread. In fact, diabetes is now considered a common disease in Australia. It affects almost 1.5 million people and this is right around 7.6 percent of the population. Diabetes is not a curable disease. It is something that you will have to live with for the rest of your life, but it is manageable. The best way to manage it is by identifying it early and your oral health could help you do just that. The first signs and symptoms of diabetes can oftentimes occur in the mouth. If you notice gum disease, gum abscesses, tooth decay, fungal infections, mouth ulcers, taste disturbances, low saliva levels, or inflammation in the mouth it is possible that you could be dealing with diabetes.
Understanding Diabetes And Gum Disease
Gum disease is a condition that causes infection in the mouth. This infection will attack and destroy the bone surrounding and supporting your teeth. This specific bone is the bone that holds your teeth into your jawbone. It allows is the bone that allows you to chew comfortably and effectively. Dentist Dr. Rajiv Butany recommends looking after your oral health and controlling your blood glucose in order to prevent gum disease because it is basically a two-way street. Treating gum disease not only aids in improving blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes but when you maintain normal blood glucose levels it makes your body respond better to dental treatments.
Diabetes And Tooth Decay
Individuals that suffer from diabetes are also more vulnerable to tooth decay as well because they have more glucose in their saliva this basically means that their mouth will be drier. Drier conditions in the mouth are a breeding ground for dental plaque. It will cause the plaque to build upon the teeth, which will later lead to tooth decay and cavities. However, one upside is that dental plaque can be easily removed by cleaning the teeth and gums twice daily with an approved toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing daily to attack the areas between the teeth can also help immensely. If you are suffering for diabetes it will be imperative to take good care of your teeth to prevent plaque, cavities, and gum disease.
Staff Writer; Steve Love