Since people with diabetes have a compromised immune system, they are at a much higher risk of developing tooth problems and overall oral infections as compared to those people who do not have diabetes. Because of the increased blood glucose level of these diabetic patients, tooth problems are also less likely to heal quickly.
Apart from keeping glucose levels under the normal range, diabetic patients must also pay extra attention to their oral health and signs of infection, if any. They are always recommended to maintain a strict schedule of checking in with their dentist to keep any oral problem or infection out of the way. Moreover, since the early signs and symptoms of diabetes also occur in the oral region of the body, keeping in touch with your dentist can also help you get an early diagnosis.
Diabetic Patients and Oral Infections
People with diabetes are highly vulnerable to experiencing oral problems at least once in their lifetime. Some of these oral health problems are;
- An itchy and dry mouth
- fungal infection, more commonly known as candidiasis
- gum Abscess
- tooth decay
- gum diseases such as gingivitis or periodontitis
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, targets the bone that is present on the base of your tooth. This bone is embedded deep into the jaw and breaks to help you chew the food more effectively.
Because people with diabetes have increased levels of blood glucose, they tend to have extremely dry mouths. Since there is no sufficient saliva circulation in the oral region, plaque is more likely to be built up on the surface of the teeth, which then causes cavities and tooth decay.
Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by the increased growth of a yeast called Candida Albicans. Since this yeast lives in the mouth and diabetic patients have dry mouths, there is limited resistance to the spread of such fungal infections.
If you have diabetes and want to prevent oral infections, you must always ensure that your mouth is not dry. Due to this reason, diabetic patients are urged to increase their water intake. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss once, and use mouthwash daily. Make sure you see your dentist at least twice a year to keep your oral health in check.
If you want professional advice about oral health, please get in touch with the River Valley Smile Center at 479.646.0706!
