Diabetes affects millions of Americans, with nearly 2 million cases of diabetes diagnosed in the US each year.
Diabetes affects millions of Americans, with nearly 2 million cases of diabetes diagnosed in the US each year. Diabetes impacts your body’s ability to process sugar, which can affect many of your body’s most important functions. High blood sugar associated with diabetes can affect your eyes, nerves, kidneys, and other organs. When it comes to the impacts of diabetes, you may not be so quick to think of your dental healthcare. However, diabetes can have a significant effect on your oral health–affecting your gums, enamel, and more. Here are some helpful tips for considering your dental healthcare and the impact that diabetes can have on your dental health.
Oral Health and Untreated Diabetes
Many of the symptoms associated with diabetes can impact every part of your body. Excessive thirst, fatigue, weight loss, and blood sugar problems can drastically affect your oral health. Dry mouth and high blood sugar related to diabetes can put you at a higher risk of cavities due to a lack of saliva. In the absence of saliva, bacteria are unable to be washed from our teeth. As these bacteria remain stagnant, the decay process begins unchecked. These symptoms can also cause inflamed or bleeding gums, problems tasting your food, delayed healing for wounds in your mouth, and infections in your mouth. Children with diabetes may have teeth erupt earlier than is typical as well.
Gum Disease and Diabetes
Chronic, inflammatory gum disease can occur when bacteria impacts your gums and causes periodontal disease. Not only does periodontal disease jeopardize your dental health, but it can destroy your gums, tissue, and bones. Because of this, it makes it dangerous and painful to handle. Unfortunately, periodontal disease is the most common dental health problem affecting people with diabetes. It affects about 22% of people with diabetes. One reason for this is because blood sugar control is crucial for gum health. An abnormal glucose level can put you at risk for gum disease, especially with age. Just like other serious infections, gum disease can negatively impact your blood sugar, making diabetes–and by extension, dental health–more difficult to manage.
Blood Sugar and Dental Healthcare
Practicing proper oral hygiene and receiving regular dental healthcare is an excellent way for people with diabetes to manage their risk of gum and dental issues, as well as their blood sugar. Brushing and flossing every day, in combination with regular deep cleanings, can work to help people with diabetes control blood sugar. Overall, it helps manage the progression of diabetes over time while maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile.
Get in Touch With Smile Designs of Olney Today!
For your smile makeover or any other dental needs, come to Smile Designs of Olney! Book an appointment with us. Whether you want your teeth whitened, straightened, or restored altogether, we pride ourselves on quality patient care and giving you the smile makeover that you deserve. Our small, professional staff will make you feel right at home. We service the Montgomery County regions including Olney, Laytonsville, Brookville, Silver Spring, Rockville, Columbia, Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Germantown, MD. Contact us at (301) 260-0700, visit us online, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube.