Diabetes and Oral Health

This sudden, unexpected period of lockdown has forced all of us to forget our usual routines and adapt a newer schedule at home. This might be having a negative impact on some of us, especially if we usually have a fast-moving life.

It is therefore mandatory to come up with a ‘Lock-down Schedule’ consisting of an amalgamation of serious and fun activities to alleviate any physical, mental or social stresses that we may face. You can read more about this on our previous blog https://curiedothealth.wordpress.com/2020/03/25/what-we-can-do-during-quarantine/ 

This is also a time when many of us are tempted to indulge in unhealthy eating habits. Although all of us need to practice a certain amount of caution when it comes to the inclusion of sugars, processed foods, and other unhealthy substituents to our daily ‘Lockdown meals’, those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes should be even more careful. 

Diabetes in addition to causing a myriad of health issues also affects the health of the oral cavity significantly. Here are some of the issues it causes when coupled with poor oral hygiene:

· Gum inflammation- gingivitis: Diabetes reduces the body’s ability to fight against bacteria. Due to this, a lack of good brushing that usually leads to plaque and gingivitis are seen more profoundly. Gums tend to get swollen, ‘Spongy’, red, easily irritated, and bleeds easily.

· Gum disease-periodontitis- A reduced ability to fight infections and an enhanced risk of delayed healing leads to gingivitis progressing into full-blown periodontitis. This is characterized by loosening of teeth, foul oral smell (halitosis), receding of gums, and increased foci of infection. 

It is important to note that periodontitis and diabetes are interlinked. Long-standing periodontitis can lead to poor control of blood sugars in the blood and vice-versa.

· Tooth decays: Gingivitis, periodontitis can further lead to poor oral hygiene and plaque build-up. The acidic nature of plaque results in the formation of cavities in the tooth and weakening of the enamel surfaces.

· Candidiasis infection (Thrush): Poor control of blood sugars commonly leads to ‘Coating of Tongue’ or other mucous membranes within the mouth called ‘Candidiasis’. This leads to oral malodor and further loss of oral and general health.

 Dry mouth: Diabetes leads to a reduction in quantity and quality of saliva and this in turn leads to further worsening of the above-listed issues such as dental cavities and candidiasis.

Symptoms that should prompt a dental visit:

· Sudden increase in cavities

· Differences in taste perception

· Bad breath

· Coated tongue that is difficult to clean at home

· Dry mouth (Xerostomia)

· Burning sensation in the mouth

· Loosening of teeth

· Increased spaces between teeth that have occurred suddenly

· Bleeding from the gums

Managing diabetes-induced oral health issues:

Practice good oral hygiene

· Avoid habits such as tobacco use or excessive alcohol intake

· Keep your diabetes in check and regularly visit your doctor 

· Visit your dentist regularly and schedule an appointment on the onset of any new oral symptoms.

· Follow an active lifestyle

· Control sugar intake and follow a diet recommended by your doctor.

To know more or to book an appointment with your best dentist in chennai, visit https://curie.health/