The American Diabetes Association has named November as American Diabetes Month. It is important to be aware of how your oral health is related if you have been diagnosed with diabetes.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), there is research that suggests a link between diabetes and gum disease. People with diabetes are more susceptible to contracting infections in general. Gum disease is often a complication of diabetes, making consistent dental care even more important for diabetes patients.
Research also indicates gum disease makes it challenging for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar. Depending on the severity of the gum disease, it can increase blood sugar in the body, which contributes to times when the body would function with higher blood sugar. This puts people with diabetes at increased risk for diabetic complications.
The AAP recommends the following:
- Keep your blood glucose under control
- Brush your teeth twice daily
- Floss your teeth daily
- Look for early signs of gum disease (bleeding when you brush or swollen gums)
- Visit your dentist twice a year at a minimum
Long Family Dental focuses on total body health, so when our patients have certain health conditions, such as diabetes, we make certain their customized treatment plan is designed specifically to their needs. If you or someone you know has diabetes at any level, make sure regular dental care is part of the overall health treatment.
A healthy smile is important at any stage of life. That’s because, from the moment your first tooth comes in, your smile is vulnerable. But through regular