While diabetes has a significant impact on the body’s overall health, it can also have a significant effect on oral health and wellness. In this blog post, we’ll explore how diabetes affects oral health, what can be done to keep diabetes in check, and the importance of open communication with dental professionals.
How Diabetes Affects Oral Health and Overall Wellness
Diabetes can increase the risk of various oral health problems, including gum disease, dry mouth, oral thrush, and tooth decay. This is because high levels of glucose in the blood can lead to increased bacteria growth in the mouth, making it harder to fight off infections.
Understanding Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes is Essential for Oral Health
There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. While both types of diabetes can impact oral health, there are some key differences between the two.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. As a result, people with type 1 diabetes must take insulin injections or use an insulin pump to manage their blood glucose levels.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and is often caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. People with type 2 diabetes may be able to manage their condition through lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, or through medication.
Challenges Facing Dental Professionals
Dental professionals face unique challenges when treating people with diabetes. For example, if the disease is uncontrolled, patients may be more prone to infection and have slower healing times, making dental procedures more challenging. Additionally, some medications can cause dry mouth or other oral health issues.
In the case of type 1 diabetes, dental professionals may need to work closely with the patient’s healthcare team to ensure that blood glucose levels are stable and well-controlled during dental procedures. People with type 1 who take insulin may need to adjust their insulin dosage or timing of injections to account for the stress of dental procedures or the use of local anesthesia. Additionally, dental professionals may need to schedule appointments for times when the patient’s blood glucose levels are more stable.
For people with type 2, dental professionals may need to be aware of any medications the patient is taking and their potential side effects. Some medications used to treat type 2, such as metformin, can cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of oral health problems. In these cases, dental professionals may recommend products to help increase saliva production or suggest frequent sips of water during appointments. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise may be a part of the patient’s overall treatment plan, and dental professionals may provide guidance on how these changes can impact oral health.
In both cases, dental professionals may need to provide additional cleanings or more frequent check-ups to help prevent oral health problems associated with diabetes. They may also need to work with the patient’s healthcare team to ensure that any necessary precautions are taken to prevent infection or other complications during dental procedures.
The Importance of Open Communication
It’s essential for people with diabetes to be open and honest about their condition with their dental professionals. This allows dental professionals to provide appropriate care and take necessary precautions, such as adjusting medication dosages or providing additional cleanings. Dental professionals can also provide guidance on how to maintain good oral health and prevent oral health problems associated with diabetes.
Keeping Diabetes in Check
To keep this chronic, ongoing condition in check and reduce the risk of oral health problems, it’s important to maintain good blood glucose control through regular monitoring, medication, and lifestyle changes. Additionally, practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups, can help to reduce the risk of oral health problems. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and get on the right path to fully managing your total oral wellness!
- https://www.diabetes.org.uk/diabetes-the-basics