Diabetes can have significant effects on oral health, including an increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can also contribute to dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. For diabetics experiencing dental issues such as teeth breaking, it’s important to consult with your dentist immediately to address any concerns, as early intervention can help prevent further damage and preserve your oral health.
Does diabetes contribute to your tooth loss?
People with diabetes may find it more difficult to fight off infections in the mouth and other parts of their body if their high blood sugar is beyond control. Additionally, high glucose levels can lead to an increase in bacteria in the saliva. If you don’t practice good dental hygiene, these bacteria can mix with food and other debris in your mouth to form plaque.
The plaque itself is quite easy to get rid of, but when it accumulates, it can become tartar, which gets stuck in the gum line and causes infections and swollen, red gums—early symptoms of gum disease. If left untreated, these symptoms turn into periodontitis and more severe gum problems and infections.
When diabetes makes it more difficult to fight these infections, periodontitis worsens, leading to tooth loss and occasionally more serious health issues, including heart disease and stroke.
Why is losing teeth a concerning issue?
Although trauma and other factors might also play a role, losing teeth is typically the result of a lifelong history of oral health issues, primarily advanced dental caries and severe periodontal disease. The estimated global average prevalence of complete tooth loss is almost 7% among people aged 20 years or older. For people in the age bracket of 60 years or older, a much higher global prevalence of nearly 23%. Losing teeth can have negative social effects on the person, psychological distress, and functional limitations.
What complications of diabetes cause teeth to break?
Potential diabetes complications like periodontal disease can contribute to teeth breaking. This condition affects the gums and supporting bone structure of the teeth, leading to weakened tooth roots and ultimately tooth loss if left untreated. The two primary factors contributing to adult tooth loss are severe tooth decay and chronic periodontal disease. As a result, it is important to consult with your dentist without delay to address tooth related concerns, as early intervention can help prevent further damage due to complications and preserve your oral health.
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