As we’ve mentioned before, dental health connects to overall health.
As we’ve mentioned before, dental health connects to overall health. The body is interconnected, and when one health issue develops, it can create a domino effect. We highly encourage our patients to take care of themselves on every level. When a person with diabetes doesn’t have the best diet, it is detrimental to their dental health. However, it also impacts their A1C level and their major organs. Today we will share a diabetic guide to excellent dental health.
Reasons to Manage Your Blood Sugar
If a person with diabetes doesn’t control their glucose levels, they’ll be at a higher risk of:
- Tooth Decay/Cavities: Naturally, a mouth contains many types of bacteria —when the starches and sugars from food and beverages combine with these bacteria, plaque forms. The plaque’s acids can attack your enamel and dentin, which leads to cavities and gum disease.
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis is gum disease at its early stages. Diabetes minimizes your chances of fighting off particular bacteria forms as quickly due to a compromised immune system. If you let plaque build-up for a long time, it can harden under your gum line and turn into tartar.
- Periodontitis: If you leave gingivitis untreated, it can develop into an advanced stage of gum disease called periodontitis. This more severe infection can destroy the soft bone and tissue supporting your teeth. In the worst-case scenario, periodontitis can result in your gums and jawbone pulling away from your teeth, leading to missing teeth.
- Dry Mouth: Xerostomia or dry mouth is something that diabetics (or anyone) may experience. A lack of saliva is problematic because you need it to flush away bacteria and residue food particles.
No one wants to develop an oral infection, but the precise reason why a person with diabetes should take care of their dental health is because of the slow healing process when they develop an infection. Conversely, having a dental disease makes it harder to control glucose levels.
Valuable Dental Health Tips for a Person With Diabetes
- Commit to controlling your diabetes by being consistent with doctor’s appointments and following your doctor’s instructions
- If possible, brush your teeth after eating snacks
- Floss at least once a day
- Please make one of our dentists aware that you have diabetes.
- Check for red, swollen, or bleeding gums: this is an early sign of gum disease.
- Refrain from smoking
Oral Care from Catonsville Dental Care
Whether you want to whiten your teeth, straighten your teeth, or have a wisdom tooth extracted, Catonsville Dental Care offers a wide variety of services when it comes to oral health. We have the experience and understanding to diagnose and treat any problem you have as quickly and painlessly as possible. With four dentists available at our office and a commitment to comfort, safety, and relaxation, you can’t find a better provider for your health. We look forward to helping you keep your smile perfect all year long and talking with you about your needs. To schedule an appointment or consultation, visit us online or give us a call at 410-747-1115. For more tips and tricks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, and YouTube.