Diabetes affects not only your blood sugar levels but also your entire body, especially your teeth and gums. If your blood glucose is not well managed, this effect will be even more pronounced, making it more difficult for your body to defend itself against bacterial infections.
It is possible that you have a greater number of plaque bacteria than the average person if your high sugar levels is not effectively controlled. Because of this, you can have a higher chance of developing oral health concerns. Plaque is a film of germs that accumulates on teeth and has a visible, sticky appearance. If it is not treated, it can cause cavities in the teeth as well as diseases like gingivitis, which is a disease of the gums.
The Initial Stage of Gum Disease
The initial stage of gum disease has been identified as gingivitis. The accumulation of plaque bacteria (calcified plaque) on the teeth and along the gum-line is the root cause of this condition. If you have diabetes, your body will have a more difficult time keeping plaque bacteria under control. Because of this, those who have diabetes have a three to fourfold increased risk of developing gum disease.
If you have any of the following symptoms, you should make an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible:
- Bright red gums
- Swollen or sensitive gums
- Gums that are prone to bleeding easily
Gingivitis has the potential to develop into periodontitis if it is not treated in a timely manner. Gum disease in its most severe form is called periodontitis. It is possible that, over time, your gums will peel away from your teeth, which will result in your teeth becoming loose.
Diabetes can also be affected by having poor oral health. It is possible for an illness such as gingivitis or periodontitis to have an impact on a person’s blood sugar levels. Because of this, it is extremely important to develop healthy oral care routines at home and to use a toothpaste and mouthwash that are designed to target plaque and gingivitis. Proper oral hygiene can assist in the protection of oral health as well as the management of diabetes. Contact us now for more information.