Written By Kassandra Foreman / Reviewed By Ray Spotts
Diabetes is most commonly known for the inability to regulate blood sugars naturally. This lack of balance in blood sugars is the most prominent effect on oral health for diabetics. It can cause cavities and decay, gingivitis, periodontitis, and a yeast infection commonly known as thrush, as well as dry mouth which is known to increase the occurrences of all of the above.
Cavities and High blood Sugar
As the blood sugar levels and starches increase so does the level of sugar found in the mouth and saliva. Sugar is one of the main causes of cavities and tooth decay, therefore leaving those with diabetes and high blood sugar levels more susceptible to them.
These sugars create cavities by bonding with the natural bacteria in the mouth and forming a plaque over the teeth, which in turn eats away at the enamel and leads to cavities.
Those with diabetes are less able to fight this bacteria, which creates increased plaque on their teeth and in turn more cavities and tooth decay, along with gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontist if not treated quickly enough.
Gum disease and tooth health
When gum disease occurs it causes an increase in the amount of bacteria in the mouth and the ability to fight the disease is decreased. This will in turn lead to less control of the diabetes and higher blood sugar levels and the cycle will continue as the increased blood sugar levels increase tooth decay and gum disease.
As the amount of yeast in the mouth grows it can form into an infection known as thrush, which is harder to fight off due to a lowered immune system.
Blood sugar levels and tooth health
The most important thing that those with diabetes can do for their tooth health is to control their sugar levels and keep their teeth clean and clear of build-up. Controlling blood sugar levels is best for both tooth health and overall health and will make it easier to keep your teeth and mouth clean. Teeth should also be brushed and flossed twice a day to remove any build up and to keep them clean.
Regular dental appointments should be maintained for cleanings, X-rays when needed, and preventative care. Any fillings should be done quickly and it is important to treat any signs of gum disease as early as possible.
Diabetes increases many health risks, and along with those are thrush, cavities, and gum disease. The best ways to fight these are regular cleanings, and brushing and flossing twice each day, along with maintaining blood sugar levels within the target set by the doctor. The better blood sugars are controlled the healthier the teeth will remain.
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Written By:
Kassandra Foreman has been writing freelance for five years now and enjoys learning about new things to write about. When not writing she teaches yoga and meditation with a focus on health and fitness.
Reviewed By:
Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.
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