Diabetes and Gum Disease: The Connection Between the Two
Is there a connection between the two diseases? Yes. Recent studies conducted by the American Diabetes Association have proven that diabetes and gum disease are linked. Diabetics not only have the problem of everyday blood glucose monitoring and maintaining; they are more prone to gum disease and oral health complications. With the serious disease of diabetes, numerous other complications can occur such as a low immune system and oral health complications such as gingivitis. Diabetics do not have as much fighting power within their immune system as healthy people and this makes them vulnerable to a variety of problems.
Diabetes and gum disease are connected because when blood glucose levels become unstable the teeth cannot remain strong. This can cause a diabetic to lose teeth throughout their lifetime. The risk of serious gum disease is higher when a diabetic’s blood sugar level becomes unbalanced. New research and studies performed indicate that if we focus on maintaining our oral health, we can maintain or improve our general health. An unhealthy set of teeth can lead to numerous problems and health conditions. Gum disease can seriously affect a diabetic because it can increase blood glucose levels so high that it may be more and more difficult to maintain on a daily basis.
If you are suffering from diabetes, you must take good care of your gums. By brushing your teeth two to three times daily after meals, flossing, booking routine dental cleanings, controlling glucose levels and using mouthwash, you can greatly reduce your chances of getting gum disease. It is also important to observe your teeth and gums daily to see if any teeth are loose and if any gums are bleeding as this has been a sign of individuals dealing with diabetes and gum disease
We at Kerrisdale Dental understand how diabetes and gum disease can deeply affect your life and quality of living. We remain educated and updated on the most recent dental studies, confirmed healthcare reports and offer state-of-the-art technology and treatments. It is our job to keep your teeth and gums healthy and we commit ourselves to providing optimal oral health and hygiene in all of our patients.
Read MoreGum Disease and How to Identify It
If you think you may have gum disease make sure you check out the top symptoms below. Do not worry, there is treatment for gum disease and your oral health can be restored. It is a good idea to maintain your oral hygiene practices as usual and then set up a consultation with one of our experienced and highly knowledgeable dentists within our practice. We care about your teeth and gums just as much as you do and strive to achieve optimal dental health with every patient that comes to see us. At Kerrisdale Dental, we want you to feel safe, cared for and treated as one of the family.
Gum disease is a tissue infection surrounding the teeth. Periodontal disease attacks an area within the mouth called the sulcus. The sulcus is located between the gums and the teeth and when the tissue is damaged, a pocket is formed in the sulcus. There are two stages that occur when this form of disease develops. They are known as periodontitis and gingivitis. Gingivitis can be reversed as it is a milder form of gum disease, but if left untreated it can turn into severe periodontitis.
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease can go undetected for quite some time. Gum disease can be prevented with regular dental checkups and routine cleanings.
Ask yourself the following questions.
- When you brush your teeth, do your gums bleed? Do your gums bleed for no apparent reason?
- Do you find that some of your permanent teeth are loose? Do you see gaps forming?
- Have you noticed that your gums are protruding outwards from your teeth?
- Do people complain that you have bad breath? Do you constantly have a bad taste in your mouth?
- If you wear dentures, have you noticed a change in the way they are fitting within your mouth?
- Is your bite different? Do you feel it isn’t the same bite as you previously had?
- Have you lost teeth recently without cause?
- Do your gums appear red, feel tender or look swollen?
If you answered yes to more than one of these questions, contact us today to book a consultation visit.
What should I do?
Call us and schedule an appointment for an exam. Many dentists and dental practices including Kerrisdale Dental can help stop the progression of the disease with periodontal maintenance. Do your best to maintain good oral health at home and brush, floss and eat healthy foods to maintain optimal immunity. We can help save your teeth from further damage if you get in touch with us today!
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