How Diabetes Can Affect Your Teeth And Gums And How To Prevent Problems
Diabetes sufferers are well aware of the various related health problems which can be caused by the illness. One problem which often gets overlooked is the link between diabetes and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is the general term for diseases of the mouth which affect the gums and the bones that hold the teeth according, to Mentone dental practices. A high incidence of teeth and gum problems in diabetics has been directly linked to the disease and poor control of blood sugar levels.
How Does Diabetes Create Other Health Issues?
Diabetes causes changes to the blood vessels and makes it difficult for the body to naturally remove waste from the body tissue and replace it with nutrients. Additionally, the higher sugar levels can promote the growth of bacteria which can lead to gum disease. Adding to these problems caused by diabetes by having poor oral hygiene will soon cause gingivitis which is the first stage of periodontal disease. Diabetics who smoke are also much more likely to suffer from problems related to gum disease. It has been noted however that people with their diabetes under control will often have perfectly normal gums and teeth.
Bad Breath
In an undiagnosed diabetic child, bad breath caused by ketoacidosis may be the first sign of serious disease. Ketoacidosis is most often seen in Type I diabetics, individuals whose pancreas does not produce enough insulin to allow their cells to take in glucose for metabolism (also the most common form of childhood diabetes). When cells need energy but cannot get it because of lack of insulin, the body attempts to rectify the situation by breaking down fat instead. The metabolism of fat produces acidic ketones, which build up in the bloodstream making it more and more acidic. The body tries to get rid of some of the ketones by expelling them in the urine and in the breath. This is what gives rise to the association between diabetes and bad breath.
Bleeding Gums
Moderate and Advanced Periodontitis is when the gums bleed, more bone is lost and one can start getting pus coming out of the areas between the gums and teeth. Those areas between the gum and teeth are called pockets. The more bone that is lost the deeper the pockets. Therefore, more bacteria, fungus, and other organism are able to multiply and create havoc with your gums and bone. At this stage the person with diabetes is not to comfortable eating so then the situation can get out of control very easy especially if they take insulin and they are not able to eat. Periodontal Disease is sometimes called the “Sixth Complication of Diabetes”. Diabetics are 3-4 times more likely to develop gum disease than others who have no diabetics.
Perfecting Oral Hygiene With A Mentone Dentist
Achieve incredible oral health or get the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted at Parkdale Family Dental. Our friendly and caring team led by professional Parkdale dentists have over 50 years of combined experience. Formerly known as Dr. Kovarik’s Dental Practice, we’ve had the pleasure of serving the people in the Parkdale, Mentone, & Mordialloc community with outstanding dentistry. We offer all-ages general dentistry care for families with specialized treatments covering cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign, teeth whitening and restorative dentistry. Call us on (03) 9070 3509 or visit our website: https://www.parkdalefamilydental.com.au/ for details.
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