Diabetes is a chronic but controllable disease in which blood sugar levels are very high. Early signs and symptoms of diabetes can occur in your mouth, so being aware of your oral health can also lead to early diagnosis and treatment.
Diabetes affects the body’s ability to process glucose in the blood due to decreased secretion or metabolic action of the hormone insulin. Without continuous and careful treatment, diabetes can lead to a buildup of sugar in the blood that increases the risk of complications.
Three main types of diabetes can be developed: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes. It is also known as juvenile diabetes and is caused when the pancreas produces too low levels of insulin, or simply does not produce it. People with this type of diabetes are considered insulin dependent so insulin must be injected at least once a day.
Type 2 diabetes. It is a disorder in which the body absorbs insulin, and although the pancreas still produces it, the cells do not respond to it. It is usually treated with the implementation of a balanced diet, the adjustment of lifestyle habits, and in some cases, with the help of medications.
Pregnancy diabetes. It usually appears in some women during the fifth month of pregnancy and disappears after delivery. It occurs when placental hormones that contribute to the development of the fetus block the action of insulin and increase blood sugar levels. It is often controlled with adequate and healthy eating and regular exercise, but the mother may also need insulin.
