Diabetes and oral health

How diabetes affects oral health .

Diabetes not only has an impact on the control of blood glucose, but can also significantly affect oral health. People with diabetes have an increased risk of developing diseases in the mouth, so from ODONTOFAMILY We advise to pay attention to oral hygiene and maintain adequate medical controls.

What is the relationship between diabetes and oral health?

Diabetes affects the body’s ability to fight infections, including bacteria that build up in the mouth. High blood glucose levels favor the development of harmful microorganisms in the oral cavity, which can cause periodontal diseases, cavities, and other problems.

In addition, the mouth can be one of the first places where symptoms of diabetes manifest, so oral health can offer important clues about disease control. 

Signs of oral alert in people with diabetes.

It is important to identify early signs of oral problems to avoid major complications. Some of the most common are:

• Inflamed gums: redness, swelling, and tenderness in the gums.

• Bleeding:  gums that bleed when brushed or flossed.

• Persistent bad breath: chronic bad breath can be a sign of infection or bacterial accumulation.
• Dental mobility: loose teeth may indicate loss of bone support due to periodontal disease.

Main complications from diabetes.

Diabetes and caries:

The high level of glucose in saliva can feed the bacteria that cause cavities. In addition, if there is less saliva production, the natural capacity of the mouth to clean teeth decreases, facilitating the development of cavities.

Diabetes and periodontal disease:

Periodontal (gum) disease is more common and more severe in people with diabetes. It can start as a mild gingivitis and evolve into a periodontitis that affects the bone and tissues that support the teeth.

Oral diabetes and fungi:

People with diabetes are more prone to fungal infections such as oral candidiasis, which appears as white spots on the tongue or inside the cheeks.

Diabetes and dry mouth (xerostomy):

Diabetes can reduce saliva production, causing a constant feeling of dry mouth. This condition, in addition to being annoying, can increase the risk of cavities, infections, and difficulty chewing or swallowing.

What factors can cause these complications?

There are several mechanisms by which diabetes affects oral health: 

• High blood sugar levels: promote bacterial growth and inflammation.

• Immune system impairment: makes it difficult for the body to fight oral infections.
• Thickening of the blood vessels: reduces the flow of nutrients and oxygen to gum tissues, making it difficult to heal.

How to prevent complications?

Despite the increased risk, it is possible to have good oral health if you have care habits with these recommendations. ODONTOFAMILY: 

• Keep blood glucose levels stable: diabetes control is essential to prevent infections.

• Have a healthy diet: rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low in refined sugars.

• Avoid smoking: tobacco aggravates gum disease and delays healing.

• Visit the dentist regularly: frequent reviews help detect problems on time.

Brush your teeth and gums daily and use floss: good oral hygiene is the first line of defense.

What is the best dental replacement for diabetics?

When it comes to replacing lost teeth, the choice of treatment should consider the patient's overall state of health and the degree of diabetes control. In ODONTOFAMILY, We evaluate all the patient factors to proceed with the best treatment, following some of them: 

• Dental implants: are a viable option for people with well-controlled diabetes. However, periodontal health and healing capacity should be carefully evaluated.
  
  
• Removable prostheses (dents): are a safe alternative for people with poorly controlled diabetes or who have significant bone loss.
  
  
• Dental bridges: they are also an option, although they require healthy adjacent teeth as a support.

In all cases, it is essential to consult with a specialized team that can offer personalized and safe treatment. In ODONTOFAMILY We are committed to offering the best treatments. 

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