Diabetes is bad enough to contend with, but not many people are aware that it brings increasing dental problems to the patient. A dry mouth is what a diabetic usually experiences as a warning that their sugar levels are high, a dry mouth is a perfect breeding ground for germs that cause gum and periodontal diseases. A West London dentist recently warned his diabetic patients of the extra care they need to take, especially with their oral care routine. A high sugar content in the blood system is a symptom of Diabetes; it is caused by a lack of insulin in the body. The body produces insulin naturally and feeds it into the blood, the insulin then attaches itself to glucose (sugar) and fats, then it opens the doorway into muscles and organs to feed them energy. If the insulin is not there the fats and glucose cannot enter the body’s vital organs to feed them, and so it stays in the blood, building up to dangerous levels. When we get an infection in our mouth and the gums bleed, the bacteria accelerates in its evolution by feeding on the high levels of sugar in the blood. So, first things first, if you’re diabetic get your sugar levels under control with a healthy diet, and the correct medication. Take extra care with oral hygiene by flossing more often and rinsing the mouth with water, drinking at least 4 pints of water a day will also help to keep down both your dental and diabetic problems. Fresh fruit and vegetables, brown bread and sugar free products are all useful in keeping the body healthy, and your diabetes under control by combating the breeding of bad germs in the mouth, your teeth will last longer, and the visits to the dentist will be reduced.
Posts tagged “diabetics”
Diabetics need to take extra care in dental hygiene says a West London dentist
January 11th, 2010West London dentist warns of increased risk of periodontitis for diabetics
September 24th, 2009
People who have diabetes often suffer health problems with their eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart. But less known is the increased risk they face of periodontal disease. This is the disease of the gums that causes painful and bleeding gums. Conversely, periodontal disease can make it hard to control blood sugar levels, which in turn can aggravate the diabetes.
It is this lack of blood sugar control that makes diabetes sufferers more susceptible to gum disease. Irregularities in blood sugar levels often cause gum disease, and diabetics are far more likely to suffer severe gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss, than non-diabetics. The thickening of blood that is symptomatic of diabetes also means it is harder to carry away the tissues’ waste products from the gums meaning that gum tissues are far more likely to get infected.
Diabetes sufferers who also smoke are at particular risk. Studies show that a diabetic smoker is 20 times more likely to suffer gum disease than someone with neither of these risk factors.
Diabetics are also at greater risk because they are not as able to remove sugars from the mouth. A build up of sugar in the mouth provides the perfect place for bacteria to grow and cause further damage.
Gum disease has two clear stages. Firstly, gingivitis, the milder form of gum disease, which is often represented by inflammation, swelling and irritation of the gums. At this stage it can still be reversed by proper brushing and a good oral hygiene routine. If the infection gets worse it may develop into periodontal disease. This is when plaque develops under the gums fording them away from the teeth. Infection then develops in this space. At this stage it will require treatment from a dental professional.
Treatment takes one of two forms; either plaque removal or more serious periodontal surgery. A West London dentist will be able to perform both procedures relatively easily. Dentists advise regular six-monthly check ups, especially for diabetics to help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
