Blog

Diabetes and Oral Health – There is a Link!

Diabetes and Oral Health – There is a Link!

Diabetes and Oral Health are interconnected –  have you or a loved one been diagnosed with Type II Diabetes? If so, you should know that there is a link between diabetes and gum disease. In fact, diabetes and gum disease often go hand in hand. If bacteria in the mouth reproduce unchecked, it causes inflammation. The inflammatory response has been determined to cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, which may make your diabetes much harder to control. Further, if you have diabetes but don’t maintain regular blood sugar levels your gum health will suffer due to higher glucose levels in your mouth and a poor healing response. You may notice more inflammation as well as bleeding on brushing and flossing.

Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, if uncontrollable, can sometimes be a subtle sign that there is something else going on in your body such as fluctuating blood sugar levels. How will you know if you have uncontrolled gingivitis? You may notice prolonged bleeding when brushing or flossing, or your dentist or dental hygienist may tell you based on their findings from a routine dental appointment. If your gum inflammation is severe or has been ongoing while in treatment for gum disease, your will be referred to your physician to determine if there is an underlying cause such as diabetes.

Diabetes and Oral Health

Please take any gum inflammation or bleeding seriously and have an assessment made by your dental healthcare provider. We are here to help you manage gum inflammation and to help you understand the root cause of your inflammation. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, please see your dental healthcare provider more regularly for gum cleanings to help reduce the overall bacteria in your mouth. Not only will you have healthier gums and teeth, but a reduction in oral bacteria in addition to the treatment your doctor has prescribed may help you to control your disease.

Want to know more about Diabetes and Oral Health? Contact us today.