Diabetes and Oral Health
According to the American Dental
Association, 21 million Americans have diabetes. Diabetes is a disease
that affects the entire body. People with diabetes have a greater risk
for health problems because they are unable to control their blood sugar
levels. Uncontrolled blood sugar disables the white blood cells’
ability to fight infection. White blood cells are the body’s key defense
to infection. Without them working at full capacity, you are at greater
risk for infections of the mouth. People with diabetes who smoke are
10 times more likely to develop the following conditions as smoking
hinders the blood flow to the gums, which interferes with healing.
Periodontal
disease (often called periodontitis and gum disease) is a progressive
condition that often leads to tooth loss if treatment is not properly
sought. Periodontal disease begins with a bacterial infection in the
gingival tissue which surrounds the teeth. As the bacteria colonizes,
the gum pockets become deeper, the gums recede as tissue is destroyed
and the periodontitis eventually attacks the underlying bone tissue. It
is not widely known that periodontal disease is often considered the
sixth complication of diabetes; particularly when the diabetes is not
under proper control.
The best way for diabetic patients to
prevent these conditions is to control their blood sugar levels. There
is a direct link between high glucose levels and oral disease. Develop
healthy oral habits such as brushing regularly, flossing, and dental
checkups twice per year. Don’t smoke. While smoking is not good for
anyone, diabetic patients are several times more likely to develop
smoking related conditions than non diabetic patients.
Diagnosis and Treatment
It
is of paramount importance for people suffering any type of diabetes to
see the dentist at least twice yearly for checkups and professional
cleanings. Studies have shown that simple non-surgical periodontal
treatments can lower the HbA1c (hemoglobin molecule blood test) count as
much as 20% in a six month period.
The dentist will use medical
history, family history, and dental X-rays to assess the risk factors
for periodontal disease and determine the exact condition of the gums,
teeth and underlying jawbone. If necessary, the dentist will work in
conjunction with other doctors to ensure that both the diabetes and gum
disease are being managed and controlled as effectively as possible.
Non-surgical
procedures performed by the dentist and dental hygienist include deep
scaling, where calculus (tartar) will be removed from the teeth above
and below the gumline, and root planing, where the root of the tooth is
smoothed down to eliminate any remaining bacteria. Antibiotics may be
applied to the gum pockets to promote healing.
Before and after
periodontal treatment, the dentist and hygienist will recommend proper
home care and oral maintenance as well as prescribing prescription
mouthwashes which serve to deter further bacteria colonization.
If you have any questions or concerns about diabetes or periodontal disease, please contact our office at 855-693-8131