Keeping your oral health in good shape is important to avoid any dental problems. Especially when you have diabetes, you should carefully maintain oral health. Diabetes can increase the risk of dental problems, and it also slows the healing process. Hence, it is recommended to understand the rule of thumb to take care of oral health while managing diabetes and prevent further complications.
If you anticipate early signs of dental problems, it is easier to avoid complications. Here we are focusing on the things about the dental care you should know while having diabetes. Let’s explore oral health management with diabetes.
Understanding diabetes and oral health issues
Oral disease and diabetes are concerned because diabetes elevates the sugar level in the blood. According to the American Dental Association, diabetes inflates your risk of gum disease and other dental problems. Once a diabetic person has gum disease, it raises the risk of diabetes complications.
The bacteria in the mouth can easily build plaques due to the higher blood sugar levels. When your blood sugar levels are increased, the amount of sugar in the saliva is also high, which forms a perfect environment for plaque to develop. Excess plaque raises the risk of infection and gum disease and increases your risk of tooth decays and cavities.
However, being proactive about treating dental problems and caring for your mouth can help you evade additional dental work beyond routine cleanings in the future. If you take special care of your mouth, you can easily prevent dental problems even with diabetes.
Also, tooth or gum related problems are not the only oral health issues you might face if you do not manage your blood sugar level or see a dentist regularly.
People with diabetes are more likely to experience dry mouth or to develop an infection in their mouths. Dry mouth can occur with uncontrolled diabetes or as a side effect of the medication to control the condition. Having a dry mouth doubles your chances of developing an infection or cavities.
When you have diabetes, the prevention of oral problems is the best solution. It is essential to note that medicines to reverse gum disease raise your chances of developing thrush (one type of yeast infection in the mouth).
How to maintain oral health while having diabetes?
Pay special attention to dental care while having diabetes to avoid damage to teeth or gums. Here some useful tips which will help to prevent dental problems while you manage your diabetes.
Manage blood sugar levels
Commitment yourself to manage your diabetes for overall health. Regularly monitor your blood sugar level and strictly follow your doctor’s instructions to manage blood sugar levels within the normal range. Controlled blood sugars decrease the chances of developing gingivitis or any other dental problems.
Form a good habit
Make a habit of brushing your teeth twice a day; before breakfast and bedtime. You can also use mouthwash after snaking to eliminate the growth of bacteria in the mouth. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride to clean your teeth thoroughly. Always avoid vigorously scrubbing your teeth that can irritate your gums.
Besides, flossing your teeth at least once a day can efficiently remove plaque between your teeth and prevent bacteria growth under your gum line.
Regular dental visit
Visit your dentist regularly at least twice a year for professional cleanings, X-rays, and routine checkups. Also, inform your dentist about your diabetic history. If required, give your dentist the contact information of your doctor (who manages your diabetes).
Watch the signs
Pay close attention to the early signs of gum disease or any other dental issue. The most common oral health problem signs include toothache, dry mouth, redness, swelling, and bleeding gums, etc. People with diabetes should not neglect the signs of dental problems; if you require emergency dental care, immediately appoint your dentist to take preventive measures.
Avoid smoking
Smoking relatively increases the risk of severe diabetes complications, including gum disease and, ultimately, loss of your teeth.
Consume a healthy diet
A healthy diet is crucial while managing diabetes and oral health. Make sure you are not consuming the food () that increases blood sugar levels. Also, eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet to keep your teeth in good shape while controlling diabetes.
When you want to opt for preventive measures and keep your oral health in good shape (despite diabetes), you should definitely find the right expert dentist. Find the best dentist while looking for preventive dental care in Roswell GA, and combat dental problems while having diabetes.
Managing oral health for people with diabetes is challenging, but it can be easily managed with precautionary actions. Follow the above-mentioned tips, which will help to keep your teeth in good shape.
