Brushing and flossing are a lot more important than you may think! You’re probably aware of the effects of not brushing and flossing to brush on your teeth but what about the effect it has on your body?
The mouth is the gateway to your body and if you have a healthy mouth then you are more likely to have a healthier body. Your mouth is has millions of bacteria and most of them are harmless. Usually, the body’s natural defences and good oral hygiene, such as daily brushing and flossing, help to keep these bacteria under control. However, without proper dental care, bacteria can reach high levels that might lead to tooth decay and gum disease and even diabetes.
Many people are surprised to discover the link between dental health and diabetes. Research has been ongoing for many years now and shows that there is an increased prevalence of gum disease among those diagnosed with diabetes.
Inflammation from diabetes impairs the body’s ability to utilise insulin. By improving your oral hygiene and treating gum disease you can help to bring diabetes under better control.
Having diabetes can increase your risk of dental problems? Managing your blood glucose levels is a crucial factor in deterring any likely problems. If your blood glucose levels are poorly controlled you are more at risk of developing serious gum disease, more so than non-diabetics.
What’s more, is that serious gum disease may be a factor in causing your blood sugar to rise and make your glucose levels even harder to control.
Other oral problems associated with diabetes include thrush, an infection caused by a fungus that grows in the mouth, and dry mouth which can cause soreness, ulcers, infections and cavities.
You might be wondering how you can prevent dental problems associated with diabetes… First and foremost, control your blood glucose level. Then, take good care of your teeth and gums, along with regular dental checkups every six months. To control thrush, a fungal infection, maintain good diabetic control, avoid smoking and, if you wear them, remove and clean dentures daily. Good blood glucose control can also help prevent or relieve dry mouth caused by diabetes.
Sometimes people don’t realise that they need to tell their dentist that they have diabetes. However, having the most up to date information on your medical health enables us to offer you the very best care and advice possible. To be able to advise you accurately it’s crucial our Leicester dentists have a full medical history to stop any problems from arising.
Diabetes Prevention Week 1-7 of April 2019. Check your risk of Type 2 diabetes…
