By Dave Howe
You can read more of Dave’s posts at www.toothbrushsubscriptions.com/blog
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Diabetes sucks. Plain and simple. There are complications that arise from the condition that include heart disease, increased risk of stroke, and kidney disease. Research shows that indeed those with diabetes are at increased risk of contracting gum disease, both gingivitis (early stage gum disease) and periodontitis (serious gum disease). Developing research also suggests the relationship between gum disease and diabetes is a two-way street. Not only does diabetes leave one more susceptible to gum disease, but indeed gum disease can lead one down the path to diabetes. As follows: significant gum disease can affect blood glucose control, which may contribute to the development of diabetes.
For those with Diabetes
Prevention is the name of the game. Make sure to control your blood-glucose levels properly. And make sure to keep a strict, significant and technically proper dental hygiene regiment. This is the only way to fight against the risks to your oral health associated with diabetes. Further, it’s critical to speak with your dentist about your condition. Those with diabetes have special dental needs that your dentist and dental hygienist are well equipped to treat. Keep your dentist informed of your condition and any changes to your health. Keep the dentist informed of any and all medication that you take. And if you need dental procedures that are not an emergency, it’s best to wait until your blood-glucose levels are normal.
Consult with a Professional
To learn more about the correlation between diabetes and oral health consult with a professional. Your dentist and your family doctor should both be able to give you significant and tailored information that will help you stay healthy. Augment their information with your own research – like you are doing now. Finally, if you encounter any of the following symptoms it is best to consult with your dentist as soon as possible:
- Bleeding gums when you brush or floss. This bleeding is not normal. Even if your gums don’t hurt, get them checked.
- Red, swollen, or tender gums.
- Gums that have pulled away from teeth. Part of the tooth’s root may show, or your teeth may look longer.
- Pus between the teeth and gums (when you press on the gums).
- Permanent teeth that are loose or moving away from each other.
- Changes in the way your teeth fit when you bite.
- Changes in the fit of partial dentures or bridges.
If you have any questions about Diabetes & Gum Disease or wish to schedule an appointment, please contact Leikin & Baylin Dental Care of Catonsville, Maryland by calling 410-747-1115 or visit CatonsvilleDentalCare.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.