The condition of diabetes can lead to a vicious circle of poor oral health. Patients who suffer from diabetes need to take special precautions when it comes to oral hygiene. Experts in dentistry Sioux Falls will be able to further advise patients with diabetes.
Gums Can Give Away the Presence of Diabetes
Interestingly, many dental patients are first warned of the possibility of having diabetes, not at the physician’s office, but at the dentist’s office. Certain signs that present themselves in the gums can indicate an underlying disease or condition, and diabetes is one of them. Some of the oral indicators of diabetes include: - Bleeding gums, with or without pain
- Red, swollen or sensitive gums
- Gums have pulled away from the teeth
- Separating or loose teeth
- Changes in bite
Diabetes Can Cause Gum Disease
On the other hand, diabetes can be the cause of gum disease, due to its nature. Those who suffer from diabetes typically suffer from a secondary condition called neuropathy. Neuropathy symptoms include a loss of sensation in nerve endings. There are lots of nerve endings inside the mouth. When a diabetic person loses some or all of the sensation from the nerve endings in their mouth, this can lead to gum problems from: - Brushing too often
- Brushing the gums too hard
- Flossing incorrectly
Further, the gums can fall into bad health independently due to some of the side effects of diabetes. For example, many diabetic patients suffer from dry mouth. Dry mouth means a lack of sufficient saliva and good bacteria in the mouth. Dry mouth can also lead to gum ulcers, sore gums, tooth decay and other infections related to the gums.
Taking Special Care
Persons with diabetes should take special care with their teeth and gums. Rather than relying on feel, it's best to conduct a thorough visual inspection of the mouth at least once a day. In that way, any problems, such as excess bleeding or mouth ulcers, can be detected when they first flare up.
Anyone who recognizes these potential signs and symptoms of diabetes related to oral health should contact an oral health care professional, as well as a physician. Diabetes is a dangerous and life threatening condition, but it does usually respond to proper treatment.