Attention Diabetics: Your Gums Are At Risk

By Abiodun Adesanya, DDS, PC

. https://www.mybowiedentist.com/

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Attention Diabetics: Your Gums Are At Risk

Periodontal (gum) disease may result from gingivitis, and inflammation of the gums usually caused by the presence of bacteria in plaque. Plaque is the sticky film that accumulates on teeth both above and below the gum line.

Without regular dental checkups, periodontal disease may result if gingivitis is left untreated. It also can cause inflammation and destruction of tissues surrounding and supporting teeth, gums, bone and fibers that hold the gums to the teeth.

How Are Periodontal Disease and Diabetes Related?

It is estimated that 16 million Americans have diabetes, but one in three does not know it. Studies have shown that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal disease than those who do not have diabetes.

Oral infections also tend to be more severe in diabetic patients than non-diabetic patients. Diabetics who do not have good control over their blood sugar levels tend to have more oral health problems.

What Types of Problems Could I Experience?

Diabetics may experience diminished salivary flow and burning mouth or tongue. Dry mouth (xerostomia) also may develop, causing an increased incidence of decay.

Gum recession has been found to occur more frequently and more extensively in moderate and poorly controlled diabetic patients because plaque responds differently, creating more harmful proteins in the gums.

How Can I Stay Healthy?

Make sure to take extra good care of your mouth and have dental infections treated immediately. Diabetics who receive good dental care and have good insulin control typically have a better chance at avoiding gum disease.

Diet and exercise may be the most important changes that diabetics can make to improve their quality of life and their oral health.

To keep teeth and gums strong, diabetic patients should be aware of their blood sugar levels in addition to having their triglycerides and cholesterol levels checked on a regular basis. These may have a direct correlation on your chances of obtaining periodontal disease.

What Is The Best Time To Receive Dental Care?

If your blood sugar is not under control, talk with both your dentist and physician about receiving elective dental care. Also, make morning appointments because blood glucose levels tend to be under better control at this time of day.

See your dentist on a regular basis, keep him or her informed of your health status, and keep your mouth in good health.

Source The Academy of General Dentistry