Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum due to poor oral hygiene. Food debris that lurks between the teeth and plaque allows bacteria to attack the gums. The first symptoms, easily treatable, are redness, swelling and sometimes bleeding, then if these signals are neglected, the problem can evolve into periodontitis. The latter can cause irreversible damage to periodontal tissues and can also lead to the loss of teeth.
Beware of gingivitis and periodontitis because they may be just some of the signs of a problematic disease
When you suffer from the symptoms mentioned above, a check-up by the dentist is always indicated to understand if it is simple oral manifestations, dental diseases or if the problem can be related to something else. In fact, attention must be paid to gingivitis and periodontitis because they can be just some of the signs of a problematic disease.
In fact, oral changes may be seen in patients with type 2 diabetes. It is a chronic condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or the insulin does not work properly. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that controls blood glucose levels and allows the body’s cells to use sugars for energy. This condition has several effects on the body: from less severe symptoms such as fatigue, sudden weight loss or blurred vision to more important neurological, renal and cardiovascular complications.
Scientific studies have also shown that those suffering from diabetes have a greater chance of contracting mouth diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis, heartburn, candidiasis and salivary gland dysfunction. High blood sugar levels which can increase the growth of fungi and bacteria are the cause of these problems. The diabetes-periodontal disease relationship, however, is two-way: in fact, bacteria, due to a disease of the oral cavity, spread throughout the body through the bloodstream, making it difficult to control sugar levels and promoting diabetes. If the two pathologies are correctly diagnosed and treated, it is possible to have important improvements in both cases.
How to take care of the oral cavity in case of diabetes
It is very important to take care of the oral cavity through a daily and well-done cleaning. Here are some tips:
- Brush your teeth 3 times a day and use floss and interdental brushes
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and tobacco
- Limit your sugar and salt intake
- Drink a lot of water
- Make regular check-ups with your dentist.
Surely 30 minutes of frequent and moderate intensity aerobic physical activity, careful oral hygiene and a healthy and balanced diet can avoid the development of mouth diseases and diabetes.