How can Diabetes affect your Oral Hygiene?

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The maintenance of good oral hygiene is extremely important due to the fact that it does not only impact dental health, but other factors of your overall health as well.
While the opposite can also be true, with oral health being compromised by varying medical factors, these problems are known to lead to serious dental complications and thus action must be taken as to prevent the occurrence of such. While it is common knowledge that issues such as stress can have an effect upon the state of an individual’s teeth, can the same be said for other medical problems such as diabetes, and can any factors of risk be reduced?

Why does Diabetes cause Dental Issues?

Unfortunately, there is no singular cause that can be attributed to the relationship between issues of oral health and diabetes. Heightened blood sugar levels occurring as a result of diabetes can be one of the many reasons for the development of dental problems due to high starch and sugar levels interacting with any naturally occurring bacteria within the mouth as to create plaque; a sticky film-like substance that develops on the surface of the teeth. The acids found in plaque are known to attack the surface of the teeth, causing decay that can lead to cavities and, in more severe circumstances, gum disease. The more plaque present on the teeth, the more damage that could potentially occur, making it vital that teeth are cleaned regularly as to prevent a build-up of plaque.

Dry mouth, an issue often experienced by individuals with diabetes due to a relative lack of saliva, can also be found to result in the development of oral health issues; the risk of oral and dental conditions is increased within those suffering from this problem.

How to Reduce Risk of Dental Issues?

As to effectively reduce the risk of suffering from any oral health issues brought on by complications of diabetes, it should be ensured that teeth are properly cleaned with a good quality toothbrush, preferably an electric model, at least twice per day. Teeth should also be rinsed and flossed after meals to remove any excess food particles and thus reduce the build up of plaque throughout the day. Foods that are high in sugars and starch, such as carbohydrates like potatoes and bread, should also be avoided where possible to further avoid an unnecessary build up of plaque.

Regular check ups with a professional dental surgery are also encouraged as to further reduce the risk of any dental health issues being developed. A dentist will be able to identify any early signs of oral health issues and advice the best course of treatment, as well as provide a thorough clean to remove any plaque build up that may have been missed during normal brushing. Additional advice specific to you and your circumstances can also be given if required.

If you believe you may be suffering from dental issues as an effect of diabetes, get in touch with Ascent Dental Care Malvern, to discover what we can do to help you.

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