Diabetes and oral health go hand and hand. Diabetes complications occur from damage to cells as a result of a persistent elevation of blood glucose – also known as blood sugar. Keeping your blood glucose close to normal can prevent or delay diabetes-related complications, including challenges with your oral health.
There are two kinds of complications: those that occur in the short term, known as acute complications, and those that occur in the long term known as chronic complications.
READ: How To Prevent 4 Common But Serious Diabetes Complications
Gum and tooth problems are examples of long-term complications. Individuals with diabetes are more likely to suffer from a disease of their gums.
High glucose levels can cause more germs to grow. An overgrowth of germs will cause your gums to become red, sore, and bleed easily. People with diabetes who are over the age of 45 and smoke are more likely to have bad gum disease.
Here are 5 of the most common mouth problems people with diabetes experience.
1. Gingivitis
Unhealthy or inflamed gums. Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Treatment for gingivitis includes daily brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings at the dentist.
2. Periodontitis
Gum disease can change from mild to severe. Periodontal disease can damage the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place and may lead to painful chewing problems.
Some people with serious gum disease lose their teeth. Periodontal disease may also make it hard to control your blood glucose. Treatment includes deep cleaning by a dental professional, medicine that your dentist prescribes, and in severe cases gum surgery.
3. Candidiasis
Also called thrush, Candidiasis is the growth of a naturally occurring fungus that the body is unable to control. You may experience sore, white—or sometimes red—patches on your gums, tongue, cheeks, or the roof of your mouth, or patches that have turned into
