Diabetes is one of the major health conditions affecting millions worldwide. It causes a lot of issues in the normal functioning of the body. Taking care of oral health is important, as it may impact the functioning of the internal system. However, it is even more vital for people with this condition to take care of their oral health. The connection between your oral health and diabetes is extremely vast with many sides yet to be explored.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a health condition in which the processing of sugar in the body is affected causing increased levels of sugar in the blood. It is of two main types. Type 1 usually affects individuals of the smaller age group, such as teens or young adults, linked with an impaired immune system. Type 2 occurs in adults and is mostly linked to lifestyle factors. In both types, insulin production is affected. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the blood sugar levels. The IDF Atlas (2021) reports that 10.5% of the adult population (20-79 years) has diabetes, with almost half unaware that they are living with the condition. (1)
Common Dental Problems Associated with Diabetes
Gum disease
Individuals with Diabetes are more likely to get gum problems.(2) It can start with something as simple as just red, swollen gums and may even lead to a complete breakdown of the gums and the surrounding bone. This can eventually result in tooth loss.
Tooth decay
Diabetes or certain medicines used in its treatment may result in a decrease in saliva (the fluid present in the mouth). This condition also called xerostomia increases the chances of tooth decay. As saliva helps clean the teeth naturally, a decrease in its levels causes a greater and faster formation of decay and harms the teeth.
Infections
People with diabetes have a great risk for infections as their immune system is weakened. One such infection can occur in the mouth during this condition called thrush. In this condition, there are painful white patches in the mouth, there may be loss of taste, bleeding, etc.
Bad breath (halitosis)
Bad breath is highly prevalent in individuals with Diabetes. As per research, an individual’s breath may indicate their prediabetic state. (3)
Impact of Poor Oral Health on Diabetes
A study published recently found that almost 1 out of 5 people with severe gum disease may have had type 2 diabetes and didn’t know it. (4)Treating gum problems has proven to help control this condition by improving the glycemic control in the body.
Managing Diabetes for Better Dental Health
Certain measures can reduce the complications caused by diabetes. The blood sugar level should be monitored regularly to ensure it’s under control. Diabetic patients should visit the dentist regularly for check-ups. Depending on their oral health, they should brush and floss as their dentist recommends. Diabetic patients need to keep themselves hydrated to prevent their mouths from staying dry for a longer duration. If they have any dental issues or gum problem they must get them treated as early as possible.
Conclusion
Diabetes is a major healthcare condition that can harm multiple systems in the body, including oral health. It may lead to complications such as tooth decay, gum disease, infections in the mouth, and even tooth loss. These issues arise due to factors like high glucose levels in saliva, reduced saliva production, and weakened immune responses, which create an environment conducive to bacterial growth and plaque formation. While it is important to maintain blood sugar levels, it is also important to take care of oral health by keeping it clean and visiting your dentist often. There is a two-way relationship between oral health and diabetes, and if either of them goes wrong, it can affect both.
References/Further reading
1.https://idf.org/about-diabetes/diabetes-facts-figures/
2.https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/gum-disease-dental-problems
3.https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/32/3/430/27569/Novel-Noninvasive-Breath-Test-Method-for-Screening
4.https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/32/3/430/27569/Novel-Noninvasive-Breath-Test-Method-for-Screening