Oral Health And Diabetes

There is two type of diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a disorder where the body does not produce insulin, which converts sugar, starches and food into energy. This type of diabetes affects children and young adults.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make enough insulin and the body has higher than normal blood glucose levels. This type of diabetes can affect children as well as adults.

Having a healthy mouth while you have diabetes is extremely important, because of the high risk of predisposition to an infection.

With diabetes:

• Your gums may become inflamed and bleed often (gingivitis).
• You may have problems tasting food.
• You may experience delayed wound healing.
• You may be susceptible to infections inside of your mouth.
• For children with diabetes, teeth may erupt at an age earlier than is typical.
• You may have less saliva, causing your mouth to feel dry. So you are exposed to high risk of decay.

Gum disease and diabetes have an interesting connection. Diabetes raises your risk of gum disease. Having gum disease then raises your risk of diabetes complications since gum disease makes it more difficult for a diabetic to keep his or her blood sugar levels under control.

If you have discovered recently that you are diabetic, please do let your dentist know about the change in your medical history, and he will look after your oral health.

Seeing your dentist regularly is very important, and it’s crucial to learn as much as you can about handling your diabetes to maintain your oral health.

• Control your blood sugar levels.
• Avoid smoking.
• If you wear any type of denture, clean it each day.
• Make sure to brush twice a daywith a soft brush and clean between your teeth
• See your dentist for regular check-ups.

Practicing good oral hygiene and having professional deep cleanings done by your hygienist or your dentist can help to lower your HbA1c.