Diabetics, especially those who are unable to keep their sugar levels under control, are generally at a higher risk of developing unwanted oral health anomalies, most prominently including dry mouth, tooth decay, and periodontitis.
This is mainly because of how the condition compromises the natural ability of the body to ward off infection. Apart from this, diabetes also decreases the otherwise optimal efficiency at which the body can heal itself.
Complications
Among the most common endocrine disorders in the world, diabetes is a systemic disease. This means that it affects various parts of the body, including the eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart — and, of course, the mouth.
Among the most prominent oral health complications of diabetes include:
- Dry mouth. Uncontrolled diabetes is known to dramatically decrease saliva production. Normal saliva flow and production is important in keeping the inner surfaces of the mouth healthy, moist, and comfortable altogether. Decreased saliva production results to xerostomia. Otherwise known as dry mouth, xerostomia easily causes a number of oral health anomalies, including tooth decay and periodontal disorders.
- Tooth decay. When diabetes remains unchecked and uncontrolled, abnormally high amounts of glucose are likely to be present in the saliva. This creates the perfect environment for tooth-decay-causing bacteria to thrive and multiply, resulting to plaque buildup. Left uncleaned, plaque buildup attacks the dental enamel, which results to tooth decay.
- Gum disease. Apart from compromising white blood cell activity, diabetes also causes the blood vessels to thicken. This essentially slows down nutrient flow and distribution, which further decreases the ability of the body to fight against infection. This is exactly why patients with uncontrolled diabetes are at a higher risk of developing periodontitis. Most commonly referred to as gum disease, periodontitis result from bacterial infection that damages soft periodontal tissues and tooth-supporting bone structures.
Dentist In Annandale
Patients who are suffering from diabetes should especially be keen on practicing proper oral hygiene such as brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing with good quality floss or interdental cleaner, and rinsing with Annandale dentist recommended mouthwash. Moreover, it is an imperative for diabetics to seek preventive dental upkeep, which include regular dental checkups, periodontal screenings, and professional cleanings.
Your local Dentist In Annandale at Teeth Plus Clinic provides nothing less than world-class dental solutions to the local Annandale community and its surrounding regions. For patients who are with a private health fund, Teeth Plus Clinic provides Pay No Gap for dental checkups, professional dental cleanings, and x-rays. For patients who are not with a private health fund, Teeth Plus Clinic offers FREE dental consultation. Call us at (02) 9519 4226, or simply book an appointment online.
We are located on Nelson Street, in the heart of Annandale, and is open to all patients from Annandale, Camperdown, Glebe, Forestlodge, Leicchardt, Rozelle, Lilyfield, Enmore, Haberfield, Erskineville, Stanmore, Petersham, and Marrickville.