DIABETES AND ORAL HEALTH Diabetes is like a gateway to all other kinds of diseases. When you have diabetes your immune system gets weak which can affect your entire body including your teeth and gums Risks Associated with Diabetes:- 1. Dental Cavities Dental cavities are caused due to the bacteria present inside your oral cavity. Bacteria interact with starch and sugar in food. When you have a high blood sugar level, there is an increase in the supply of sugar and starch thereby increasing the risk of dental cavities. 2.Gingivitis:- Plaque buildup on the gumline causes inflammation in the gums called as Gingivitis. The longer the plaque increases the severity of the condition. With diabetes, it becomes difficult to fight bacteria leading to increase chances of gingivitis if the plaque is not removed regularly. 3. Periodontitis:- If gingivitis is not treated on time, it leads to a severe condition called periodontitis. Periodontitis affects the soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth, eventually leading to the weakening of teeth. Infection in gums can lead to increased blood sugar levels, which in turn makes it difficult to control diabetes. Preventing and treating Periodontitis can help improve your oral condition and your blood sugar level. 4. Dry Mouth:- A dry mouth is also known as Xerostomia. Diabetes sometimes may cause dry mouth conditions leading to increase thirst which is one of the first symptoms of diabetes. Lack of saliva leads to an increase in the tooth cavity, gum disease, bad odor, etc. 5. Thrush:- People with diabetes are more likely to suffer from thrush, which is a fungal infection caused by bacteria known as Candida Albicans. The fungus thrives more in presence of high glucose in saliva Signs & amp; Symptoms:- Painful white and red patches. Maintaining good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of thrush. 6. Burning of Mouth or Tongue:- This is caused due to presence of Thrush. 7. Poor Healing Of Oral Tissues:- Diabetic people have slower healing ability. Any infection or trauma to the oral cavity due to any daily activity or dental treatment has a slower healing rate They have to be more careful with the wound or it may lead to severe conditions, especially in uncontrolled diabetes. HOW CAN YOU TAKE CARE OF ORAL HEALTH? 1. Keep your blood sugar level under control. 2. Commit To Regular Dental Visits. 3. Make sure your dentist knows about your health condition. 4. Brush Twice daily. 5. Flossing at least once a day 6. Removing the plaque buildup regularly. 7. Treating teeth cavity as soon as possible before it causes any infection. 8. If getting your teeth extracted make sure to take proper care of your wound to avoid complications. 9. Schedule and follow proper follow-ups. 10. If using dentures, make sure it's comfortable and not causing harm to your oral tissue. Clean them regularly. FOR FURTHER ASSISTANCE OR ANY QUERIES CALL US OR VISIT:- DENTAPEX DENTAL CLINIC, MUTHANALLURU CROSS, DOMMASNADRA, SARJAPUR ROAD. 8369169473