Diabetes And Your Dental Health

Diabetes can seriously affect your dental health. It severely lowers the body's chances of fighting off many forms of infection. This includes oral infections. If you are diabetic you must be careful with your oral hygiene. You should be especially careful not to let plaque buildup on your teeth. Plaque that has built up to the point where it can cause gum disease is detrimental. This is what leads to oral infection and the inflammation of gums and the bone and nerve fibers of the teeth. When you have diabetes it can take longer than average for these dental issues to be clear up.

What special oral symptoms can diabetics experience?

Diabetics often experience dry mouth. Dry mouth causes a lack of saliva which is an essential component in the prevention of tooth decay. Saliva cleanses the mouth and makes teeth more resistant to decay. Dry mouth can lead to burning mouth syndrome. Burning mouth syndrome causes a burning sensation in the mouth. This burning sensation often begins in the morning and continues throughout the day and will usually start to dissipate at night. Tingling of the tongue and a bitter taste in the mouth are also often experienced.

How can I help myself to stay orally healthy?

You can help to keep your gums and teeth in good shape by watching for signs of burning mouth syndrome as well as gum infection and getting them treated quickly. Getting your insulin levels under control is also essential. Insulin regulation is not just good for your overall health but it is also good for your dental health as well. Your diet is also important and you should make sure that you eat foods that are healthy for your gums and teeth such as fruits and vegetables that contain fiber. Foods that contain fiber will aid in the natural cleansing of the teeth.

Here is a list of additional things you should do to keep your gums and teeth healthy when you have diabetes.

1. Exercise

This helps to increase the circulation of blood to the teeth. A healthy influx of oxygen will help the cells in your gum stay healthy.

2. Monitor Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels

Monitor your blood sugar levels at all times. In addition, you should check your cholesterol as well. High blood sugar combined with elevated cholesterol levels elevates your risk of gum disease.

3. Schedule Early Morning Visits to the Dentist

Early morning visits are best because the glucose levels are not as elevated as other times of the day. This means you are in the best physical shape for your visit.

Taking care of your dental health when you have diabetes is not difficult if you catch problems quickly and take care of yourself in order to reduce the chances of oral health issues. For more information, talk to the dentist at a local clinic, like Family Dental Care


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