Oral Problems Associated With Diabetes
Individuals with diabetes have an increased risk of developing heart and kidney disease and stroke. It is not as obvious that diabetics also have an added risk, which is the development of gum disease. There is a higher threat of gum problems among those with diabetes than for those who do not have this medical condition.
For anyone who is afflicted with diabetes, some form of gum disease can be an added risk since periodontal problems can also speed the progression of diabetes by affecting blood glucose levels. Diabetic individuals are more susceptible to infection and do not have the same ability to fight it, thereby enabling gum disease to gain more of a foothold. Also, the infection created by gum disease can raise blood sugar levels, increasing the problems that diabetics will have in keeping their blood sugar under proper control.
The best way for those with diabetes to help themselves is to maintain good oral hygiene by regularly brushing and flossing the teeth. Routine visits to the dentist are also crucial, as any developing problems can be caught in the beginning stages. Individuals who have diabetes should see the dentist at least twice a year. Blood sugar levels need to be controlled, which will benefit the gums along with keeping diabetes itself in line.
Everyone should take proper care of teeth and gums to prevent dental problems, but people with diabetes need to be more vigilant about their dental care as a result of their medical condition.
Source: Dr. Philip Shindler, Dentist Westlake Village
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For anyone who is afflicted with diabetes, some form of gum disease can be an added risk since periodontal problems can also speed the progression of diabetes by affecting blood glucose levels. Diabetic individuals are more susceptible to infection and do not have the same ability to fight it, thereby enabling gum disease to gain more of a foothold. Also, the infection created by gum disease can raise blood sugar levels, increasing the problems that diabetics will have in keeping their blood sugar under proper control.
The best way for those with diabetes to help themselves is to maintain good oral hygiene by regularly brushing and flossing the teeth. Routine visits to the dentist are also crucial, as any developing problems can be caught in the beginning stages. Individuals who have diabetes should see the dentist at least twice a year. Blood sugar levels need to be controlled, which will benefit the gums along with keeping diabetes itself in line.
Everyone should take proper care of teeth and gums to prevent dental problems, but people with diabetes need to be more vigilant about their dental care as a result of their medical condition.
Source: Dr. Philip Shindler, Dentist Westlake Village
Back to Blog