Diabetes and Your Oral Health
by Dr. Stephen J. Parr D.D.S.
Read Diabetes and Your Oral Health by Dr. Stephen J. Parr D.D.S. to learn more about Grove Smiles® Dentistry and our Dentistry office in Coconut Grove, FL.
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Unfortunately, Diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases today. In fact, 29.1 million people in the U.S. have Diabetes, and millions more live with this condition and do not even know they have it.
Due to the prevalence of Diabetes, we have been made aware of the conditions and disease processes linked to Diabetes, such as vision loss, heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. But many of us are surprised or unaware of the impact Diabetes can have on our mouth.
Is There A Connection To the Health of My Mouth and Diabetes?
Diabetes is linked to oral infection and gum disease. This link is essential to know as periodontal or gum disease affects 22 percent of the people diagnosed with Diabetes. Even more startling is that one in five cases of total tooth loss is linked to Diabetes. Although these statistics are concerning, a proper understanding of the association between these two diseases is the first step in preventing complications.
How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?
We have billions of bacteria living in our mouths. If that bacteria is allowed to build up, it can lead to gum disease–swollen, bleeding gums and bone and tooth loss. Because people with Diabetes have a decreased ability to fight off harmful bacteria, they are more susceptible to gum disease. Poor blood glucose control also increases the likelihood of gum problems.
The relationship between Diabetes and gum disease, however, is two-way. Because infected gums are a natural access point for bacteria to enter the bloodstream, bacteria from the mouth can cause a blood sugar spike and fluctuate, making Diabetes harder to manage.
Beyond gum disease, there are other oral infections and problems associated with Diabetes, including thrush, dry mouth, cavities, and ulcers.
Ready To Help
Keeping us involved is the most important thing you can do to prevent gum disease and other oral complications linked to Diabetes. If you have are currently managing Diabetes or if under review for this condition, let us know. Keeping us informed of your medications and your doctor’s recommended treatment plans is essential. Plus, no more than ever, it is important not to miss your dental appointments every six months or more if deemed necessary.
Let’s Work Together!
Every aspect of you and your family’s health is important to us, not just the health of your mouth. If you have questions about how we as dentists can help you manage your Diabetes, contact us. Here at Grove Smiles Dentistry in Coconut Grove, we are your partners in ensuring your oral and overall health.
For Your Health,
Dr. Stephen J. Parr D.D.S.
