Common Cares

Dental Care for diabetes

A dentist is in a position to recognize several of the signs of the onset of diabetes because a few of the symptoms show themselves in and around the mouth. However, most of the time people with diabetes are treated by dentists the same way as any other people. It is only when people with diabetes avoid regular dental care that they increase the risk of gum and teeth problems.

Gum disease, for example, can reach an advanced and serious stage before patients start feeling any pain or before they notice any bleeding during brushing. If you have poorly controlled diabetes, the healing response to infections may be delayed. This is likely linked with the effect that diabetes has on blood vessels. This link may also lead you to experience severe toothaches from impaired circulation of the teeth. This lack of blood flow to the teeth and gums may even result in root canal treatments for teeth without cavities.

If gum surgery or teeth extractions are required, or if implants are to be placed, a very careful follow-up should be planned. This will include special dietary instructions and very close observation of the healing process. Some patients may also be prescribed antibiotics. If you take any oral diabetes medications, you should inform your dentist to ensure that there is no reaction between your diabetes medication and the suggested antibiotic.

Poorly controlled diabetes can also contribute to dry mouth and a burning sensation on your tongue. This lack of sufficient moisture can eventually lead to an irritation of the entire lining of the mouth, since a normal volume of saliva actually protects the teeth from cavities and makes chewing and speech comfortable.

Regular care for the teeth

Your teeth come under attack whenever you eat. Bacteria that live in your mouth live on the sugars and starches in the food you chew. These bacteria become part of the sticky plaque that clings to the surface of your teeth. Plaque can also irritate your gums and other tissues that support your teeth. That can lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis occurs when the gingiva, the parts of your gum around the base of your teeth, become inflamed and bleed easily.

Although plaque is the main cause of gum disease, diabetes can make things worse. Diabetes may weaken your mouth's germ-fighting ability. High blood sugar levels can make gum disease worse.

The best way to keep dental problems at bay is brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and with great care to avoid plaque formation. This also prevents acid attack to your teeth. Any food particles left in between teeth will break down and become acidic - remember that food does not have to be sugary and sweet to cause a cavity.

If you have diabetes, you're at higher risk of gum disease and infections. Poor blood sugar control makes gum problems even more likely. The good news is that with proper care, your teeth can last a lifetime. Some tips for proper care of teeth could be:

• Using a soft-bristled brush.
• Placing your brush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth, and using a short back-and-forth motion to clean your teeth.
• Replacing your brush about every 3 to 4 months.
• Thorough flossing and easing the floss between your teeth and gumline.

Making time for regular dental visits

Seeing a dentist regularly is critical for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Regular checkups and teeth cleaning are also important. Periodontists (gum specialists) have discovered that if you wait longer than 90 days between professional cleanings, a worsening of periodontal (gum) disease occurs. After this period, bacteria become more aggressive and more damaging to the gums surrounding your teeth. Some people may need to see a dentist every 3 months, while others may only need a yearly checkup. Talk to your dentist about what frequency is appropriate for you.

If you suspect a problem, let your dentist know as soon as possible. Your dentist will always make time for you, especially if there is a problem. Dental problems do not go away if ignored and it is best to have them treated as early as possible.

A dentist must be consulted if you:

• Experience dry mouth, difficulty in eating or tooth or mouth pain
• Have not had a dental checkup within 2 years
• Observe sores or lumps in your mouth

Tips to remember when you go to a dentist

• Tell your dentist you have diabetes. Also, discuss any problems you have with infections or controlling your blood sugar.
• Eat before you go to see your dentist. The best time for dental work is when your blood sugar is in a normal range and your diabetes medication action is low. For example, if you take insulin, a morning visit after a normal breakfast is best.
• Take your usual medications before your dental visit, unless your dentist or doctor tells you to change your dose for dental surgery.
• Stick to your normal food regimen after dental work. You may need to use an alternative meal plan with more soft or liquid foods.
• If you require dental surgery, wait until your blood sugar is under control.

A healthy mouth plays a very important role in the quality of our lives, from food enjoyment and good digestion to social interaction and speech. Even if you are a diabetic, take good care of your oral health, because you too have a reason to smile.