Did you know that, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over one in ten Americans has some form of diabetes? Not as many know about the related dental issues, but you’re making a significant step to educate yourself by reading this article. We’re here to lay out how exactly type 1 diabetes connects to your oral health.
How Does Type 1 Diabetes Affect Your Teeth?
What Is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes can affect people of any body type, weight and race. The condition occurs when your pancreas doesn’t create enough of the hormone insulin. Without insulin, sugar can’t get into your cells, and it builds up in the bloodstream. As a result, people with type 1 diabetes must check their insulin regularly and inject the appropriate amount to regulate their blood sugar.
Both genetics and environmental factors play a role in developing type 1 diabetes.
Remember that, with proper exercise, diet, medications and care, type 1 diabetes is a manageable condition.
Symptoms Exhibited by Children With Diabetes
Early detection is an essential factor in avoiding adverse outcomes of diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, type 1 diabetes is most often diagnosed in children or infants, but can begin at any age.
The most common type 1 diabetes symptoms include:
- Frequent urination
- Extreme levels of thirst or hunger
- Weight loss despite normal diet
- Injuries that are slow to heal
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
If your child starts wetting the bed again after being potty trained, this could indicate type 1 diabetes.
Oral Complications of Type 1 Diabetes
What precisely is the relationship between type 1 diabetes and teeth problems? According to the American Dental Association, periodontal disease is the most common disease affecting those with diabetes. Poor control of blood sugar can cause a variety of dental side effects if not adequately managed.
Type 1 diabetes can cause:
- Dry mouth due to a low level of saliva
- Higher risk of cavities
- Gum disease, including severe gum problems and periodontitis, if left untreated
- Potential difficulty in tasting certain foods
- Higher risk of mouth infections, like thrush
- Slower healing of wounds
- Young children may have teeth erupt earlier than their peers
It’s vital to recognise and treat dental issues early, so you’re doing a great job informing yourself.
How to Prevent Oral Problems From Type 1 Diabetes
You can work to create a more healthy link between type 1 diabetes and your dental health. Better control of your blood sugar will help set you up for success, according to the Mayo Clinic. Diabetes lowers your ability to fight germs, so removing plaque is especially important to avoid cavities and gum problems.
Poor control of blood sugar increases your risk of dental problems. The good news? Treating gum disease can help control your blood sugar.
Prevention tips:
- Control your blood sugar by closely following your doctor's recommendations
- Brush twice daily for two minutes and floss or use other interdental cleaners once daily
- Chew sugar-free gum to promote saliva production
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products
- Adopt a healthy diet
- Visit your dental professional regularly to stay ahead of potential problems
Diabetes and your dental health are directly connected. Managing your type 1 diabetes has likely already helped you understand the importance of healthy habits, so you’re in a great position to prevent issues. Careful attention to your blood sugar and dental routine management will pave the way to a beautiful smile.
