- Type II
Diabetes. The cells in the body don’t interact
with the insulin.
Therefore, the type of diabetes an individual has will
dictate how it can be controlled. Those people who do not produce enough
insulin can receive insulin injections. Individuals whose cells don’t react
with the insulin can try to control their diet and the types of food they
eat (reduce the amount of sugar and fat).
A disease such as diabetes
effects the entire body including the mouth. Here is some information in a
question and answer format that may shed some light on how diabetes effects
the teeth, gums, and breath.
Q: Are Diabetics More
At Risk For Getting Cavities Than Non-Diabetics?
A: Not necessarily. If the condition is monitored and
controlled, the diabetic is at no greater risk for getting cavities than a
non-diabetic.
If the condition is not
controlled, and the diet consists of foods high in sugar and starch, the
diabetic’s chance of getting cavities will increase. It is understood that
diabetics sometimes eat smaller meals, requiring more meals per day. This
means frequent doses of sugar (in various forms) throughout the day. A
diabetic needs to ensure he/she brushes their teeth after every meal and
flosses
daily.
Some diabetics have noted their
mouths feel dry. If this is the case, then the risk of cavities is
definitely increased. Normally, saliva washes over the teeth collecting some
(not all) sugar and is then swallowed. Without enough saliva in the mouth,
sugar is allowed to remain on the teeth. This allows the sugar an
opportunity to cause decay.
Q: What Can Gum Disease Mean For
A Diabetic?
A:
Diabetics are known to have a decreased dental healing response. Gingivitis
is an infection within the gums caused by bacteria found in plaque. A
diabetic’s body doesn’t respond as quickly to fight this type of infection
as a non-diabetic. If the infection persists it can become worse leading to
the infection of underlying bone that anchors the teeth in place. It has
been shown that diabetics who keep their condition under control have a
better chance of combating infections that those who are poorly
controlled.
In addition to controlling the
condition of diabetes, the importance of maintaining good oral health is
essential. Brushing and flossing help to reduce plaque and bacteria that
cause infection and thereby decreasing the risk of gum disease.
Q: Will A Diabetic Lose Their
Teeth Sooner Than A Non-Diabetic?
A:
Many factors contribute to the loss of teeth in someone who has diabetes. A
poor healing response combined with gum disease and the destruction of bone
anchoring the teeth in place may result in teeth that become loose and
eventually fall out. Although diabetics have no control over their response
to infection, they can practice good oral hygiene habits (brushing and
flossing). Removing plaque will reduce or eliminate infection. Ensuring the
diabetes is controlled (taking insulin, altering diet) is also a way of
decreasing the risk of tooth loss.
It should be noted that a
diabetic may have excellent oral hygiene and still suffer from gum disease
and bone loss. If this is the case, additional measures can be taken. A
dental hygienist can recommend a special prescription mouthwash which kills
various bacteria in the mouth that contribute to gum disease. Your dentist
can write the prescription. Diabetics should be encouraged to ask their
hygienist any questions they have regarding their oral health
status.
Q: Many Diabetics Have
Unpleasant "Fruity-Sweet" Smelling Breath. Is There Anything They Can Do
About It?
A:
Unfortunately, no. The "fruity-sweet" breath is caused by the disease itself
as a result of the body’s natural defense against decreased glucose use.
There are some methods of masking the odor, but they are only temporary and
do NOT eliminate the problem. Some things that may help
are:
- chewing gum (make sure it’s
sugarless!!)
- using a mint flavored
mouthwash
- brushing
frequently
While there are
many other concerns that people with diabetes may have, these are the basics
pertaining to the oral health. If you have any questions that have not been
answered, or would like more detail, please don’t hesitate to contact the
web site!
