On top of Thanksgiving happening this month, another holiday also needs to be mentioned: National Diabetes Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 37 million Americans have diabetes. Today, we wanted to share information on how this condition affects oral health. First and foremost, those diagnosed with diabetes tend to have irregular glucose levels, meaning they have a higher risk of developing tooth problems and gum disease. If you or someone you know received a diabetes diagnosis, it’s imperative that you visit us at least every six months. We want to ensure your oral health is in tip-top shape, especially when prone to oral health issues. IT’S NATIONAL DIABETES MONTH! How Blood Sugar Affects Your Teeth and Gums
toothpaste on your brush, and start lightly brushing at the back of your mouth in a downward motion. This will help remove odor-causing bacteria in your mouth. You could also try a tongue scraper to remove mucus and other residue. Please don’t self-diagnose health conditions just by looking at this list! Instead, book a visit with us, and we can examine your oral health to determine if immediate action is required. We will help you find a solution that works best for you.
Now, what oral health issues could you experience and be at a higher risk for than someone without diabetes?
GUM DISEASE Often called periodontal disease, it’s caused by an infection that can destroy bones supporting and surrounding your teeth. Without these bones, it can be extremely difficult to chew comfortably. Gum disease is more common (and severe) to those with diabetes because an excessive amount of glucose in your saliva can lead to bacteria and plaque build- up. If plaque is left on your teeth, it can harden and irritate your gums and teeth to the point where they become red and swollen. TOOTH DECAY Increased bacteria and plaque build-up in your mouth can lead to tooth decay and cavities. To help prevent this, brushing twice a day and flossing at night can help remove any bacteria lingering in your mouth. Be sure to brush gently since brushing aggressively can cause gum loss. FUNGAL INFECTIONS Higher amounts of glucose in saliva can cause lower resistance to infection. Additionally, dry mouth (a potential sign of diabetes) can promote the growth of fungi in your oral health. It’s important to note that people with diabetes are at a higher risk for infections and dental implant failure. However, even with these stipulations, you can still install dental implants — as long as you monitor and control your glucose levels.
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE! Do you want more information about Bismarck Advanced Dental & Implants? Scan this QR code right now to go to our website! You can learn about our services, view the Smile Gallery, read testimonials, and much more. So, give this a scan and discover how we can help your smile have a brighter and cleaner future.
If you or someone you know is currently dealing with diabetes, please send them our way! We would love to help and provide tips that can help keep your smile bright and fresh!
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