The past decade has seen a lot of research go into the link between diabetes and gum disease. In fact, according to a recent study, periodontal disease has become a leading complication of diabetes. Many people, until they visit a denture clinic, usually have no idea that there is even a connection between diabetes and their oral health. Before delving into the details, what exactly is diabetes?
A brief look at what diabetes is
A person with diabetes has their body unable to produce insulin or to use it properly. Typically, insulin in the body is used to convert starches and sugar into energy. Insulin gets into the bloodstream and is transported to the cells to help with the process of energy creation. A person with diabetes will have their body unable to fuel its needs but at the same time with too much blood sugar. Too much sugar in the blood can trigger complications including eye disease, heart, and kidney problems.
There are two types of diabetes; type I and II. In Type I, the body makes no insulin at all and in type II, the body makes insulin but has no response to it. In both cases, the patient will have to practice a lot of self-care to improve their life expectancy and their quality of life.
The symptoms of diabetes are such as increased thirst, passing more urine than usual and always feeling hungry. With time, one may begin to experience unexplained loss in weight, uncontrollable hunger, and blurred vision. Since the symptoms are manageable, it is common for a lot of people to miss the signs. However, diabetes does not discriminate; it can affect any person.
The link between diabetes and oral health
Diabetic people have irregular levels of glucose in their blood putting them at high risk of teeth problems than people without the disease. What is more, the diabetics have a lower resistance to infection so when one catches on; it is likely to escalate quickly. If you are diabetic, you need to be vigilant about your oral health; do not wait until your teeth start to deteriorate, visit a dentist or denture clinic.
The most common oral issues you are likely to encounter include mouth ulcers, gum abscesses, tooth decay, gum disease and fungal infections like thrush. You are also likely to have a constant dry and burning mouth and taste disturbances. Of all the said issues, periodontal disease is the most severe. The disease is caused by bacteria in the mouth and causes the gum to redden, swell and sometimes bleed.
Left untreated, gum disease can start to wear away all the bones around your teeth. Eventually, you start to lose your teeth. However, even though your risks of developing gum disease are high, it is important to note that your fate is not sealed. With the right management, you can avert the risks and keep your body optimal. Be especially vigilant about your oral health and any symptoms you might have.
Besides periodontal disease, diabetes is also closely linked to tooth decay. Bacteria in plaque begin to feed on the food remains in the mouth and produces acids that start to eat away at the enamel. After a while, you develop teeth cavities. While this may happen for all people, diabetics are more prone due to the high glucose levels in their saliva. Be sure to have your mouth regularly checked in addition to your daily hygienic practices.
How dentures can help
Dentures serve as replacements for any missing teeth. After one gets used to them, they begin to feel like natural teeth and even look the same. If diabetes has affected your teeth, you can have partial dentures to make sure that your teeth still look as best as they can. They will also come in handy in preventing the escalation of problems such as tooth decay. If you are looking for a denture clinic, contact the team at Aesthetic Dentures to see how we can help improve your oral health.
