Diabetes is a medical condition that requires a lifelong commitment to a healthy diet and lifestyle. While the role of diet in managing diabetes is pretty well known, the impact of a healthy lifestyle beyond regular physical activity on blood sugar levels is little understood. Many people would be surprised to know that even adding a smile to their daily routines can help them improve diabetes care.

Oral care is an important part of everyone’s daily routine. However, it is even more significant for people living with diabetes as they are at a greater risk for oral diseases. Experts say that poor oral care not only compromises the health of teeth and gums, but it can even complicate diabetes management. However, on a brighter note, it is possible to prevent these problems.

The article below explains the correlation between diabetes and oral care in detail.

Understanding the relationship between diabetes and oral care

High glucose levels (in blood and saliva) constitute a major link between diabetes and oral health. People with uncontrolled diabetes have very high levels of glucose in their saliva which helps foster the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth. These harmful bacteria combine with tiny food particles to create plaque (a soft and sticky substance) on the teeth. The acids in plaque damage the surfaces of teeth (enamel and dentin). Over time, this leads to cavities and gum disease.

Similarly, people living with diabetes are also at a greater risk for oral problems.  High levels of glucose in blood levels significantly increase the risk of bacterial infection and adversely affects healing. High blood glucose levels also impair white blood cells that help fight bacterial infections. Moreover, severe gum disease can also spike blood glucose levels which makes it further difficult to manage diabetes.

Tips for better oral health and diabetes management

While the problems emanating from poor oral care and diabetes may sound serious, they are easy to prevent if effective measures are taken on time. Some of the simple tips that can help people living with diabetes improve their oral health and diabetes management are:

• Strive to maintain blood glucose levels within the target range
• Eat healthy meals and become physically active
• Brush and floss teeth properly at least twice daily
• Rinse mouth with antiseptic mouthwash at least once a day
• Quit smoking (for those who do)
• People who use dentures should clean them daily
• Visit a dentist for regular oral health check-ups.

Takeaway

Health experts recommend focussing on oral care for better diabetes management. Simple oral care techniques such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash are not only proven ways of improving oral health but also diabetes management. A lifelong commitment to these techniques will be rewarded with better health outcomes and a shining smile. 

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