When diabetes is not controlled properly, high glucose levels in
saliva may create problems that lead to an increased risk of tooth
decay.
Your teeth are covered with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. After
you eat food that contains sugars or starches, the bacteria react with
these sugars to release acids that attack tooth enamel. This can cause
the enamel to break down and may eventually result in cavities.
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between
your teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner helps remove
decay-causing plaque.
Plaque that is not removed can eventually harden into calculus, or
tartar. When tartar collects above the gumline, it becomes more
difficult to clean thoroughly between teeth. This can lead to chronic
inflammation and infection in the mouth.
Because diabetes reduces the bodys resistance to infection, the gums are among the tissues likely to be affected.
Periodontal diseases are infections of the gum and bone that hold your
teeth in place. Patients with inadequate blood sugar control appear to
develop periodontal disease more often and more severely, and they lose
more teeth than those who have good control of their diabetes.
Because of the lower resistance and longer healing process,
periodontal diseases often appear to be more frequent and more severe
among persons with diabetes.
You can help reduce these risks through good maintenance of blood
sugar levels, a well-balanced diet, good oral care at home and regular
dental checkups.
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