If you are diabetic, you know how difficult it is to live a healthy life with this disease. Ignoring any aspect of health in this condition can be fatal in later days.
Dental health is one such aspect that most people tend to ignore. But do you know diabetic people pose greater risks for oral issues?
For any diabetic person, a minor oral issue can easily become a major health crisis. Hence, it becomes very important to know what you should do to maintain a healthy mouth in case you are also diabetic.
How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?
Diabetes controls more than just your blood sugar levels; it greatly affects your body’s immune system.
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Gum Disease
Poor blood sugar control gives more chances for inflammation and bacterial growth in your mouth. This can often lead to gingivitis and, when left untreated, major periodontal disease. In extreme cases, this can cause gum recession and tooth loss.
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Dry Mouth
Another prominent side effect of diabetes is a lack of saliva production. Lack of saliva can lead to a dry mouth. Saliva helps neutralize acids in your mouth and also helps wash away food particles from the mouth.
When your saliva production is less than normal, your mouth becomes more susceptible to cavities, irritation, and fungal activities.
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Increased Bacterial Infections
Diabetes weakens your body’s immune system. Thus, your body becomes vulnerable to any minor bacteria and infections. These conditions can become lethal if you do not take the necessary steps on time.
In extreme situations, infection can cause tooth abscesses. If you suspect an abscess, your job is to contact an emergency dentist in Berwyn.
Identify Dental Emergencies in Diabetic People
If you have diabetes, you need to know how to identify a dental emergency very fast. Identifying the symptoms on time means you get timely treatment, and the situation does not worsen anymore.
- If you are having extreme tooth pain, you may be suffering from a deep infection or abscess.
- If you notice bleeding from your gums after minimal pressure and it does not stop within some time, it can be a dental emergency.
- Swelling in the jaw and a fever- both of these are prominent signs of gum infection, and this infection might be spreading to other body parts.
Controlling your blood sugar level is very important for a successful dental checkup.
How to Manage Dental Emergences with Diabetes?
- Always ensure your blood sugar level remains within the safe range. If it is not, your healing can be impacted.
- If you are already facing dental issues, such as tooth pain, loose teeth, or gum bleeding, you should contact a dentist nearby.
- Above all, it is important to stay calm in difficult situations and maintain your temperament during the dental visit.
As per the American Diabetes Association, diabetic patients should make dental visits at least twice a year. This clearly highlights the secret of the condition.
Remember, managing your oral health along with diabetes can be difficult, but it is also possible with the right guidance.
Do you need more information on this? Contact our dental office now!