Around 30 million Americans suffer from diabetes. Heart disease, strokes, and kidney problems are the issues that are most commonly associated with diabetes, but research is showing that serious gum and periodontal disease may also be very common among diabetes sufferers. This tends to go both ways though, as severe cases of gum disease can affect blood glucose levels, which contributes to the progression of diabetes.
Oral Health & Diabetes
If you do suffer from diabetes, it’s important to make sure you have your blood glucose under control. This is important for many reasons, including the increased risk for developing serious gum disease. This can cause you to lose teeth, and develop oral infections, which are more difficult to treat in diabetics. Infection can also cause your blood sugar to rise and will make your diabetes even harder to keep under control.
The best way for a diabetic to ensure their dental health is by maintaining blood glucose levels. It’s also important to follow regular oral hygiene habits, brushing and flossing every day and receiving exams and cleanings every 3-6 months. Make sure your dentist is aware of the medications you may be on and if there are any changes in your diabetes.
For information about orthodontic treatment, or to make an appointment for an orthodontic evaluation, please contact Garlock Orthodontics here in Aurora, Colorado.