Diabetes is a serious health condition that affects millions of people. One of the lesser-known impacts of diabetes is its effect on your gums and overall oral health. People with diabetes are at a higher risk for gum disease, which can lead to more severe dental problems if not properly managed.
The dental care team at Storts Family Dentistry can work with you to address any concerns about the condition of your gums. We provide personalized dental care and help diabetic patients with chronic needs to maintain their oral health and manage disease.
How Diabetes Affects Your Gums
Diabetes can affect the health of your gums in several ways, making them more vulnerable to infection and disease. High blood sugar levels can weaken your body’s ability to fight off infections, including gum infections.
Increased Risk of Gum Disease
People with diabetes, especially those with poorly controlled blood sugar, are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Gum disease occurs when bacteria and plaque build up along the gum line, leading to inflammation, infection, and even tooth loss in severe cases. Diabetes can make it more difficult for the body to fight off these infections, which is why gum disease is more common among individuals with diabetes.
Dry Mouth
Diabetes can cause dry mouth, a condition where there is not enough saliva to keep your mouth moist. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and when there isn’t enough, harmful bacteria can build up in your mouth, increasing the risk of gum disease and cavities. Dry mouth can also cause discomfort and make it harder to speak, swallow, and eat.
Poor Blood Circulation
Diabetes can affect blood circulation, leading to slower healing in the gums. If your gums become infected or injured, they may take longer to heal. In some cases, this can lead to more serious gum problems if infections are not treated promptly.
Gum Inflammation
High blood sugar can cause your gums to become inflamed, swollen, and bleed easily when you brush or floss. This inflammation is a sign of gum disease and should not be ignored. If left untreated, this inflammation can progress to more severe gum disease and tooth loss.
Maintaining Healthy Gums If You Have Diabetes
If you have diabetes, taking good care of your gums is crucial for your overall health. Fortunately, by following some simple dental care practices, you can reduce your risk of gum disease and keep your gums healthy.
Keep Your Blood Sugar Levels Under Control: One of the most important steps in maintaining healthy gums if you have diabetes is controlling your blood sugar. High blood sugar weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections, including gum disease. Work closely with your healthcare provider to keep your blood sugar within a healthy range and make any necessary adjustments to your diet, exercise routine, or medication.
Brush and Floss Daily: Good oral hygiene is essential for preventing gum disease. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Be gentle when brushing along the gum line to avoid irritating your gums. Flossing once a day is equally important, as it helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gum line, areas that a toothbrush may miss.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your mouth moist and combats dry mouth. This is especially important for people with diabetes, as dry mouth can increase the risk of gum disease. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, keeping your gums and teeth healthier.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups with your Storts dental care team are crucial for people with diabetes. We can monitor your gum health, detect any early signs of gum disease, and provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Be sure to inform us if you have diabetes so they can take extra care when examining your gums and teeth. Your dental hygienist can also give you advice on proper brushing and flossing techniques.
Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet is important for maintaining both your overall health and gum health. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can contribute to plaque buildup and increase the risk of gum disease. Focus on eating nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and leafy greens, can help support healthy gums and prevent inflammation.
Quit Smoking: Smoking is harmful to your gums and increases the risk of gum disease, especially in people with diabetes. If you smoke, quitting can significantly improve your gum health and reduce your risk of developing serious gum problems. Speak to your healthcare provider about ways to quit smoking.
Maintain Gum Health with Routine Care
Your Storts family dentist plays an important role in helping you maintain healthy gums, especially if you have diabetes. Routine dental visits are essential for monitoring your gum health. Your dentist will check for early signs of gum disease, such as redness, swelling, or bleeding gums, and will take steps to address any concerns. Regular check-ups also allow your dentist to track any changes in your oral health that may be related to your diabetes.
Professional cleanings are especially important for people with diabetes, as they help reduce the risk of infection and promote gum health. If our dental care team notices any signs of gum disease, they can take prompt action to treat it before it becomes more serious. Early treatment may involve deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, to remove plaque and bacteria from below the gum line.