In the Netherlands, approximately 1,2 million people live with diabetes. However, a fifth of this group of people do not know this. They have hidden diabetes. It sometimes takes years for a person to be diagnosed with diabetes because symptoms are vague or sometimes do not occur at all. Yet other health complaints can be traced to diabetes, even though they appear to have nothing to do with this chronic condition. For example, periodontitis, or an inflammation of the gums and possibly also the jawbone. Between twenty and thirty percent of diabetes patients suffer from gingivitis to some extent. And because 'healthy' people go to the dentist more often than they do glucose meter check, the teeth offer the opportunity to detect diabetes more quickly.
periodontitis
Why do diabetes patients suffer from dental inflammation more often? This is due to high blood sugar levels. The body tries to get rid of the sugar through the urine, resulting in more thirst and a drier mouth. This means there is less saliva. And it actually protects the teeth and gums. If this disappears, the risk of cavities, fungal infections and gum infections increases. Especially because the little saliva also has too high a sugar content. In addition, too high a blood sugar level leads to damage to the blood vessels, which impairs blood flow. Wounds and inflammations will heal less quickly.
Dental problems for diabetic patients
Dentists and dental hygienists can play an important role in early detection of diabetes. A pocket probe is used to examine whether there is tartar and inflammation. The root surfaces of the teeth will then be thoroughly cleaned. If inflamed gums are not treated, the inflammation will become deeper. It then becomes a chronic gum disease, which can result in the loss of teeth or molars. The inflammation is caused by not brushing and flossing the teeth. Gums protect the jawbone and the roots of the teeth. It is the plaque between the tooth and the gums that causes the inflammation. The bacteria can then enter the blood. This bacterium contains a protein that causes blockages in the blood vessels and arteries. This creates a vicious circle. Damage to the blood vessels results in inflammation, which in turn causes damage to the blood vessels.
Prevent gingivitis
Tartar infections can be prevented in various ways. This is extra important for diabetes patients, because they are at an increased risk. First of all, quitting smoking is desirable, because nicotine counteracts blood flow in the gums. In addition, try to eat and drink a maximum of seven times a day. This gives the body the opportunity to neutralize the damaging acids from food with saliva. Eating vegetables also supports the oral flora. Water also provides a cleaning effect. So drink enough. Brushing and flossing the teeth limits plaque, making tartar less likely to form. Finally, it is advisable to eat less sugar and starch, because this promotes the production of plaque.