Diabetes is a chronic disease in which results in too much glucose in the blood. The blood sugar level can be too high if the body does not make enough insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas and which moves glucose out of the blood and into the cells, where it is broken down to produce energy. If not treated, high levels of glucose in the blood can lead to long-term health problems. Diabetes and the difficulties it brings can be managed sufficiently well so that a normal lifestyle is possible. In the treatment of diabetes, a balance of diet, exercise and medication is important. There are more than 246 million people in the world with diabetes. This is likely to more than double by 2030.
What oral health problems can be associated with diabetes?
- Dry mouth (Xerostomia)
- Oral thrush (Candidiasis)
- Burning mouth
- Dental caries and tooth decay
- Gingivitis
- Lichen Planus and Lichenoid reactions (inflammatory skin disease)
- Periodontitis
- Salivary dysfunction
- Taste dysfunction
- Infection and delayed healing
What is the connection between diabetes and periodontal (gum) disease?
Research shows that there is an increased prevalence of gum disease among the nearly 21 million Americans that have diabetes, along with the incidence of heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Periodontal disease is often linked to the control of diabetes. Patients with inadequate blood sugar control appear to develop periodontal disease more often and more severely, and they lose more teeth than persons who have good control of their diabetes. Because of lowered resistance and a longer healing process, periodontal diseases often appear to be more frequent and more severe among persons with diabetes. That's why good maintenance of blood sugar levels, a well-balanced diet that meets your needs, good oral care at home, regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important.When diabetes is not controlled properly, high glucose levels in saliva may help bacteria thrive. The bacteria releases acids derived from dietary sugars that attack tooth enamel causing plaque build-up and cavities. Plaque that is not removed can eventually harden into calculus and collect above the gum line. This can lead to chronic inflammation and infection in the mouth. Thus, diabetes often causes periodontal disease which in turn affects blood sugar level control, and vice versa-causing a downward spiral of overall health and wellness. Gum disease has also been linked to other health problems. These include atherosclerosis, heart disease, stroke, premature births and respiratory disease.
Why does my mouth frequently feel dry?
Saliva helps wash away food particles and keeps the mouth moist. Without adequate saliva, bacteria continue to colonize. Dry mouth, or Xerostomia, is a common complaint among diabetic dental patients. This is most likely caused by diabetic medications. Constant dryness irritates the soft tissues in the mouth, often making them inflamed and painful. This condition greatly increases the risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease.What other oral conditions should I be concerned about?
- Oral infections
o Swelling or pus around your teeth or gums
o Pain in the mouth
o White or red patches on your gums, tongue, cheeks or roof of your mouth
o Painful teeth
o Dark spots or holes in your teeth
- Poor healing
o If your diabetes is poorly controlled, you heal more slowly and you increase your chance of infections after dental treatments
- Fungal infections
o Oral thrush, or candidiasis, is common in diabetics and in people taking prescription medications, such as antibiotics. The oral thrush fungus, candida albicans, causes white patches in areas of the mouth that may bleed and turn into sores or even into ulcers.
What can I do to protect my oral health?
The most important protective measure for diabetics is to control blood glucose levels and to receive professional cleanings at the dental office. Good blood glucose control can help prevent or relieve dry mouth, oral thrush, and periodontal infections caused by diabetes. Maintaining oral health through a rigorous oral protocol that utilizes MedActive® Oral Relief Products will provide relief from the discomfort of diabetic dry mouth and other oral complications.Diabetes mellitus affects people of all ages, and its prevalence has been increasing. Providing safe and effective oral medical care for patients with diabetes requires an understanding of the disease and familiarity with its oral manifestations. The goal of therapy is to promote oral health in patients with diabetes and to enhance the quality of life of patients with this incurable disease. Providing relief from dry mouth, oral thrush, burning mouth, and gum disease is the primary goal when utilizing MedActive® Oral Relief Products.
