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How Diabetes and Oral Health are Linked 

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How Diabetes and Oral Health are Linked 

how-diabetes-and-oral-health-are-linked

Patients who have diabetes are typically aware that the disease can affect other parts of the body, such as the nerves, kidneys, heart, and more. However, it can also cause problems with oral health. Those who have diabetes are more at risk for developing gum disease, which is an infection of the gums and bones that hold the teeth into place. 

What is Diabetes? 

When a patient has diabetes, it means that their blood glucose (blood sugar) is too high. Blood glucose is the main source of energy, and it comes from the food you eat. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps glucose from food get into your cells and be used as energy. However, sometimes the body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use it well. In this case, the glucose stays in your bloodstream and doesn’t reach your cells. Over time, having too much glucose in your blood can lead to health concerns. There are different types of diabetes, they are: 

  • Type 1: This is where the body does not make insulin. Your immune system will attack and destroy the cells in your pancreas that make insulin. This type of diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults. People with type 1 will need to take insulin everyday. 
  • Type 2: With this type, your body does not make insulin or use it well. While you can develop type 2 diabetes at any age, it is most often found in middle-aged and older adults. This is the most common type of diabetes.
  • Gestational: This diabetes develops in some women when they become pregnant. Most of the time, this diabetes goes away once the baby is delivered. However, if you do have gestational diabetes, you are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life. 

Diabetes and Oral Health 

Those who are diagnosed with diabetes are more likely to experience issues with their dental health. People with diabetes have been found to be more likely to develop periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the gum and bone that keep the teeth in place. 

Why does this happen? If a person doesn’t have their diabetes in control, gum disease can develop. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research explains that having gum disease can make your blood sugar harder to control. If you have diabetes, it is important to look over your mouth on a regular basis to see if there are any causes for concern. Sometimes, you may notice your gums are swollen and/or bleed when you brush and floss. However, it is also common to experience mouth dryness, soreness, white patches, and a bad taste in the mouth. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to make an appointment with Mountain Aire Dentistry and Dr. Chris Bockrath. 

Treating Gum Disease 

If you do develop gum disease with diabetes, it’s important to treat it to prevent tooth loss and further dental health issues. To treat gum disease, your dentist will do a deep cleaning of your mouth. If your condition calls for it, you can also be prescribed a special mouthwash to help. However, in some instances, you may need to see a periodontist for gum surgery. 

How to Prevent Dental Health Problems 

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research continues to explain that good blood glucose control is the key in controlling and preventing dental health issues. People who have poor blood sugar control will experience gum disease more often and more severely than those who have their condition well-controlled. If you do have this condition, they explain, it is important to: 

  • Control your blood glucose
  • Brush twice a day and floss regularly
  • Visit your dentist for regular checkups, being sure to let the dentist know that you have diabetes
  • Let your dentist know of any issues you currently feel/see within your mouth
  • Quit smoking as smoking can make gum disease worse 

Make an Appointment with Mountain Aire Dentistry

If you or someone in your family has diabetes, make sure to see the dentist regularly. At  Mountain Aire Dentistry, we can help deep clean your mouth and treat gum disease. Further, we can provide you with helpful tips that can help you get and maintain optimal oral health — even if you have diabetes. Make an appointment with us today by calling our office at (303)-731-7755. Your dental health is of the utmost importance to us. We will see you soon!

 


291 E Flatiron Crossing Dr,
Broomfield, CO 80021

(303) 731-7755

 

When you visit our Broomfield dental office, your smile is our top priority. Our Dentists invite you to experience the difference a warm and caring team can provide for you and your family. Enjoy a unique and comfortable dental experience designed to bring a healthier and happier smile back into your life. We invite you to call or visit our Broomfield dental office and discover the exceptional difference we offer to those we serve.