We consume significantly more sugar than is generally recommended and makes sense for long-term health. This particularly affects them Dental health. Sugar can promote the development of tooth decay because it is metabolized by oral bacteria and triggers processes that can attack tooth enamel. It's not just the amount that plays a role, but also how frequently and at what times sugar is consumed.
What happens to our teeth when we eat sugar?
Bacteria live in the oral cavity and use sugar as a source of energy. This creates acids that attack the tooth enamel and remove minerals from it. This process is called Demineralization referred to. If this happens regularly and without sufficient phases for remineralization, the tooth enamel can become porous and cavities, i.e. tooth decay, develop.
Additional bacteria can settle in these cavities and damage deeper layers of the tooth. Without dental treatment, tooth decay can lead to long-term pain, inflammation or tooth loss.
It is not sugar alone that causes tooth decay, but rather the interaction of sugar, bacteria and inadequate oral hygiene. However, the following applies: Frequent snacks containing sugar increase the strain on tooth enamel and can increase the risk of tooth decay.
Why is the risk of dental disease increased in diabetics?
people with Diabetes statistically have an increased risk of dental diseases such as tooth decay and periodontitis. A permanently elevated one blood sugar level can promote the growth of bacteria in the mouth and promote inflammatory processes in the gums.
In addition, restricted blood circulation in diabetes can cause inflammation to heal more slowly. Many sufferers also report dry mouth, which reduces the protective flow of saliva and weakens the natural acid protection of the teeth.
The immune system can also be impaired if diabetes is poorly controlled, which promotes infections in the oral cavity. Therefore, good blood sugar control and consistent dental care are considered important factors for dental health in people with diabetes.
Special everyday situations for diabetics
People with diabetes need to regulate their blood sugar regularly. This may also be necessary at night or immediately after brushing your teeth, for example during a Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Dental societies point out that tooth enamel is temporarily more sensitive after contact with acids. It is therefore often recommended to wait around 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after consuming sugar or, conversely, not to consume sugar immediately after brushing.
Practical tips for the night
- After consuming sugar, rinse your mouth with water to remove any residue.
- If possible, chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow.
- Brush your teeth thoroughly in the morning. Toothpaste containing fluoride can be part of daily dental care.
Sugar intake and dental care in everyday life
For people with diabetes, situations arise in everyday life in which rapid sugar intake is necessary, for example if you have low blood sugar at night or after brushing your teeth. In such cases it is common Dextrose (dextrose) used because they are as quickly absorbed carbohydrate enters the bloodstream directly.
Dextrose-based products such as Hyporest are used, among other things, because they can be taken without any taste and do not have direct sugar contact with the teeth. This can be particularly useful at night or after dental care when blood sugar needs to be corrected.
However, taking such products does not replace regular dental care or dental check-ups.
You can find out more on our website Why Hyporest?.
Medical notice: This article is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or dental advice. If you have dental problems or diabetes, diagnosis and treatment should always be carried out by a medical or dental professional.
