🦷What is Dental and Gum Problems in Diabetes
People with diabetes are more likely to have dental and gum (oral) problems. High blood sugar affects blood vessels, lowers immunity, and creates a favorable environment for bacteria and infections in the mouth. Good oral health is very important for diabetics, because untreated dental issues can make diabetes harder to control.
Causes
- High blood sugar (Hyperglycemia): Increases risk of bacterial growth.
- Poor circulation: Slower healing of gums and tissues.
- Weakened immune system: Makes mouth infections more common.
- Dry mouth (Xerostomia): Diabetes reduces saliva, leading to ulcers and infections.
- Plaque & tartar buildup: Leads to gum inflammation and tooth decay.
Common Problems / Symptoms
- Gingivitis – Red, swollen, bleeding gums.
2. Periodontitis – Severe gum disease with loss of supporting bone and loose teeth.
3. Dry Mouth – Feeling of dryness, burning, cracks, bad breath.
4. Oral Thrush (fungal infection): White patches inside mouth, soreness.
5. Tooth decay (Cavities): Due to plaque, bacteria, and reduced saliva.
6. Delayed healing: After dental extraction or injury, healing is slow.
7. Bad breath (Halitosis).
Complications
- Early tooth loss.
- Spread of infection to jaw bone.
- Worsening of diabetes control (oral infections increase blood sugar).
- Pain, chewing difficulty, and poor nutrition.
Homeopathic View
Homeopathy looks at dental issues in diabetes as part of the whole-body imbalance. Remedies are chosen on the patient’s general constitution, type of gum disease, and overall health.
Commonly used remedies (individualized prescription needed):
- Mercurius solubilis: For swollen, spongy, bleeding gums with offensive breath.
- Kreosotum: For rapid tooth decay, foul odor, burning gums.
- Silicea: For delayed healing after tooth extraction or abscess formation.
- Borax: For aphthous ulcers and bleeding gums.
- Phosphorus: For bleeding gums and sensitivity of teeth.
- Arsenicum album: For thrush, burning mouth, extreme weakness.
Along with remedies, strict oral hygiene, controlled sugar levels, and regular dental checkups are essential.
