Diabetes and oral health

The relationship between diabetes and oral health is a consequence of the high morbidity that this metabolic disease causes in patients. We discussed previously how aging affects oral health in this article we will discuss the consequence of diabetes on oral health.

Diabetes is a health problem whose complications are common and are caused by a lack of control over symptoms.

Among the acute complications, hyper and hypoglycemia occur, the consequences of which can be life-threatening. Within chronic complications, micro and macrovascular damage occur that cause different consequences in the body. Oral complications are the subject of this post.

Oral complications of diabetes

Diabetes causes, long – term reduction of immune resistance to oral tissues and, in turn, decreased production of collagen therein. For this reason, patients with diabetes have a higher risk of suffering infections and other types of oral pathologies. The following are the most common oral health consequences associated with diabetes.

Cavities

People with diabetes tend to reduce their consumption of sugars, yet the incidence of cavities increases. Above all, in patients who do not carry out the necessary dental supervision.

Oral ulcers

Ulcers can develop in the mouth with a higher incidence, due to the lack of collagen and immunological deficit.

Oral yeast infection

The tissues of the mouth atrophy more easily, making it easier for fungal infections to grow. The mucormycosis causing severe headaches, exophthalmos, and ophthalmoplegia can occur with poorly controlled diabetes. It is important because it has a high mortality.

Glossitis

The person may have this problem because the papillae present alterations, as well as a  decrease in saliva  (xerostomia) and changes in the bacterial flora. All this together causes a  burning and dry mouth sensation. In addition, inflammation of the salivary glands can occur.

Alterations in tooth development and growth

In children, depending on the age at which the disease begins, there may be an acceleration or a delay in tooth growth. Likewise, neonates of diabetic mothers tend to present more cases of cleft palate.

Diabetes and periodontal disease

Diabetes influences periodontal disease. People with long-term diabetes suffer from periodontitis more often. This occurs as a result of metabolic products of diabetes that cause tissue damage. But it is also because cell death is increased in this disease. In fact,  periodontitis is considered a common complication of diabetes.

Diabetes and oral health :Preventive measures

The prevention of oral diseases in diabetic patients goes through adequate control of this metabolic disease and its blood glucose levels. In addition,  oral hygiene is essential to avoid tooth decay and periodontitis since tissues are more susceptible to being affected by dental plaque and pathogens.

Finally, it is essential to go to dental check-ups to assess the condition of the teeth, gums, and oral cavity. 

Patients need the training to understand the relationship between diabetes and oral health. Go to your trusted dentist.

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