Diabetes and Gum Disease What’s the Connection

Your dentist in Anaheim Hills explains that gingivitis and the more serious periodontal disease is a big problem for diabetics.

Right along with eye and kidney disease, heart disease and nerve disorders, gum disease is being labeled the fifth complication of diabetes.

Why are Diabetics More Prone to Gum Disease?

Gun disease starts with bacteria building up on your teeth and gums. Once plaque and tartar starts to erode your gumline, pockets will form allowing food particles and bacteria to enter your bloodstream.

Because bacteria don’t play favorites, anyone can be susceptible to the bad stuff, but especially people with diabetes. Dr. Ringer explains that it’s because diabetics have a greater response to inflammation from bacteria.

Blood Sugar is Hard to Control

Periodontal disease is the more serious form of gum disease and causes your jawbone to erode leading to damaged gums and eventual tooth loss. Diabetics are more susceptible to periodontitis and need to pay careful attention to oral hygiene. People with diabetes may also need to see their dentist in Orange County more frequently.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

According to Dr. Ringer, you may have gum disease if you have chronic bad breath. If your gums are swollen and red and bleed when you brush and floss, you may be suffering from gum disease.

People who have diabetes find it more difficult to control blood sugar levels if suffering from periodontal disease. In more advanced cases, regular deep cleanings, antibiotics, and even oral surgery may be recommended.

Diabetes and Gum Disease

Studies indicate that people who are diligent with oral health care have a better chance of keeping blood sugar levels in the normal range. Patients who did suffer from Inflammation saw blood glucose levels respond immediately after gum disease treatment.

Avoiding Gum Disease

Even if you aren’t a diabetic, it’s still important to watch what you eat and how you take care of your teeth and gums. When you follow these tips, you are well on your to a healthier mouth and a healthier body.

• Avoid acidic beverages including energy drinks and lemon water
• Brush twice a day for two minutes with a soft bristled brush
• Floss every day
• Don’t forget to brush your tongue
• Schedule regular dental visits, at least twice a year if you are diabetic

Diabetes and Other Mouth Concerns

Diabetics suffer from dry mouth more than people who don’t have diabetes. Sugar free gum is good for saliva production as is sugar free candy. Stimulating your salivary glands will help relieve dry mouth caused from medication or high blood glucose levels.

If you or someone you know suffers from diabetes, call or click and schedule an appointment with Dental Cosmetics Anaheim Hills. Not only will you get a thorough mouth examination, but you can also discuss those cosmetic dentistry procedures that you have been thinking about with Dr. Ringer.

As past president and an Accredited Fellow with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Ringer will look after the health and beauty of your teeth and gums.

Call for a no obligation cosmetic dentistry consultation and a comprehensive dental exam in Orange County today.