Impact of Diabetes on Gums

Impact of Diabetes on Gums

Posted by Low Country Dental Center Mar 29, 2023

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Having diabetes increases the chances of a number of dental problems, including gum disease. People with diabetes are more susceptible to serious gum disease, which puts them at risk for tooth loss. Diabetes can also affect the way the body responds to infection, making gum disease more difficult to treat.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease that interferes with the body's ability to process sugar properly. Those with diabetes have too much glucose in their systems, which can affect more than just their blood sugar. It also affects blood vessels, nerves, and gums. It can cause inflammation in the mouth, which can lower the resistance to infections like gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.

A diabetes diagnosis alone does not directly cause gum or tooth problems; however, it can contribute to poor dental health. If diabetics are struggling with oral health due to diabetes, they should talk to their dentist. They may be able to get a better handle on their dental health by altering their diet, taking medications, and more. 

Diabetes and Mouth

Diabetics have a higher risk of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. This is because the condition can cause blood sugar to rise and plaque to form more easily in the mouth. Additionally, diabetic patients are more likely to develop infections and have delayed healing due to fluctuating glucose levels in the body. Furthermore, diabetics may experience dry mouth due to the medications they take to treat the disease. A dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and oral thrush.

For patients with diabetes, the American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist once every three to four months for routine checkups and cleanings. During visits, patients should discuss their overall health with their dentist and take preventative measures for their gums to stay healthy. These tips include brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once every day, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol products. Patients should also see their dentist immediately if they notice any symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding or redness of the gums, pain when chewing, loose teeth, or receding gums.

Gum Disease Is Linked to Diabetes

Diabetics are more susceptible to all kinds of oral infections, including gum disease and tooth decay. In fact, studies link poor oral health in diabetics with elevated blood glucose levels. Inflamed gums can make it difficult to produce insulin, which can inhibit the ability of your body to regulate glucose levels in the blood. Likewise, untreated gum disease can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits can help reduce the risk of developing both conditions.

If you have diabetes or prediabetes, make sure that you visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups to protect your teeth and gums. If you smoke tobacco or use other forms of spit tobacco, ask your doctor for help quitting to help prevent gum disease and other serious health complications.

Please reach out to our dental practice at 70 Pennington Dr, Ste 7, Bluffton, SC 29910, to have a consultation with our dentists. Call Dentist in Bluffton, SC, or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.

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