You are diabetic? Here are 3 slogans for a healthy mouth!
People with diabetes must pay attention to their oral hygiene as they are more susceptible to infections of all kinds.
Why does diabetes makes you more vulnerable to gum disease?
- It is said that a diabetic person would produce less collagen. As this protein is responsible for tissue repair, the gingiva becomes more exposed to gum infection.
- Blood vessels in a diabetic person are often inflamed. It means the influx of blood to the gingival vessels decreases, hindering nutritional intake to the gums and slowing down the healing process.
- If blood sugar levels are poorly controlled, mouth fluids will contain more glucose. It will lead to the production of other organisms, such as fungi.
Thus, it’s harder for people with diabetes to fight against bacterial plaque, making them more vulnerable to gingivitis. This inflammation is characterized by red and puffy gums as well as bleeding during brushing. When the inflammation spreads, it worsens into periodontitis, a more serious infection that has reached the bone supporting the teeth.
Controlling the disease helps to avoid and prevent gingivitis. Of course, brushing teeth and flossing, along with routine visits to the dentist will help maintain a good oral health. Most importantly, one must inform his dental professionnal of any change in his state of health.
It is important to remember that uncontrolled blood sugar level will worsen any periodontal disease which in turn will have a negative impact on diabetes. To avoid this vicious spiral, and keep a healthy smile, one must control his blood glucose, have an adequate oral hygiene and be heedful.
