How Does Diabetes Effect Oral Health?

Diabetes can affect your teeth and overall oral health. At Gateway Dental Care in Pleasanton, CA, we offer education and dental treatments for our diabetic patients to help you maintain your healthy teeth and smile.

Diabetes & Oral Health

Diabetes is a condition that affects nearly 30 million Americans. Both type I and type II diabetics have been shown to have increased risks of both tooth and gum problems.

• Gingivitis, Early Form Of Gum Disease
• Periodontitis, Advanced Form of Gum Disease
• Tooth Decay & Cavities
• Teeth Breaking
• Teeth Falling Out
• Needed Tooth Extractions
• Ulcers
• Sore Mouth
• Bad Breath
• Bleeding Gums
• Difficulty Chewing
• Increased Risk Of Oral Infections

Gum Disease & Diabetes

Current research shows an increased prevalence of gum disease among those affected by diabetes. Patients with diabetes are over 20% more likely to suffer from periodontal disease than non-diabetic patients.

The Problem With Dry Mouth

Our saliva serves an important function, it helps to wash out the acids, bacteria, and food particles that accumulate in our mouths. Diabetics generally suffer from dry mouth due to a decrease in saliva. This allows food particles and acids to accumulate in the mouth which can lead to many oral health issues.

Bad Oral Health Can Cause Complications

Not only can your diabetes affect your oral health, but bad oral health can affect your diabetes. New research suggests that having gum disease may impact your ability to maintain stable blood glucose levels.

Poorly maintained blood glucose can also lead to gum disease which can then lead to increased difficulty maintaining blood glucose. So, neglected dental care can contribute to the progression of diabetes.

Excellent oral hygiene is essential for reducing the risks associated between diabetes and your teeth.

• Thoroughly Brush Teeth And Gums At Least Twice A Day
• Floss Properly Daily
• See Your Dentist For Regular Checkups
• Receive Prompt Treatment For Oral Infections & Thrush

Schedule Your Regular Checkup Today

Being a diabetic doesn’t automatically sentence you to a life of bad teeth. Regular dental visits, exams, and early treatment can help reduce the risks associated with diabetes and your teeth. At Gateway Dental Care, in Pleasanton, CA, we are equipped to help you maintain your oral health.

Call today to schedule your appointment and inform our staff if you are diabetic. We look forward to helping you preserve the health of your teeth and gums.