Effects of Diabetes on Dental Health

Dentist in Indianapolis IN discusses the importance of stable blood sugar level

When one has diabetes, be it Type I or Type II, high blood sugar can have a serious effect to all of your body. In addition to this, the level of sugar in your mouth also has an effect on your teeth. With awareness as to what you put into your mouth, diabetes can be controlled and a long life is possible. For this reason, your Dentist in Indianapolis IN shares the information below.

As we all know, the higher your level of sugar is in your body, the higher the level of sugar and starches will be in the mouth which forms the acidity that feeds the plaque. Plaque contains bacteria that wears down your tooth enamel leading to tooth decay and cavities.

How diabetes affect your teeth?

Those with diabetes have a lessened ability to fight infections from bacteria. If not brushing and flossing the bacterial plaque from teeth after eating and washing it away with antiseptic mouth rinses as well as plain water, plaque can quickly harden to tartar under the gumline which then brings irritation to the gums. Gums then become swollen, bleed easily and gingivitis (gum disease) becomes a problem that can develop to the larger problem of periodontitis, a disease that can cause the destruction of the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In order to avoid gum disease, it is important to keep your blood sugar level stable.

What to do?

Brush twice a day and floss at least once a day and change your toothbrush every three months. (which is good advice for everyone) Do not neglect to visit your dentist in Indianapolis IN twice a year for professional cleanings and check-ups and remind your dentist on each visit that you are diabetic. Your dentist will keep a watch for certain problems that come with diabetes, such as dry mouth which is called Xerostomia. Saliva can diminish in patients with diabetes due to medications being taken or high sugar levels. Drinking adequate amount of water is important.

This may all sound a bit alarming, but do not worry. With proper diet and oral care, you can take care of your physical health as well as your dental health. Contact your Dentist in Indianapolis IN to learn how you can improve the quality of your dental care.