Did you know that there is a link between diabetes and gum disease?
People with diabetes are more at risk for mouth infections, specifically (gum) disease which can increase blood sugar and diabetic complications. “In fact, periodontal disease is often considered a complication of diabetes” according to the American Academy of Periodontology. People with diabetes are 2 to 3 times more likely to have gum infections and are at greater risk of losing teeth.
Can gum disease treatment help control diabetes?
“Yes, the good news is that in people with type 2 diabetes, treatment of severe disease (for instance, deep cleaning) can lead to a drop in blood sugar levels. The benefit is about the same as you might find if you added another drug to your usual diabetes medicine” according to the American Dental Association. Read the entire article….
What do your Dekalb dentists at Dekamore Dental recommend?
• Make sure your dentist knows you have diabetes.
• Keep your blood glucose as close to normal as possible.
• Use dental floss at least once a day.
• Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste after each meal and snack.
• Visit your dentist and get a cleaning every 3 or 4 months.
• If you smoke, talk to your dentist or doctor about quitting.
• Sip water throughout the day if your mouth gets dry.
• If you do not have teeth or wear a denture or partial, report to your dentist or physician any changes in your gum tissue.
Call Dekamore Dental at (815) 748-2666 for your dental cleaning and stay ahead of gum disease!