AppointmentsStudies have confirmed a definite correlation between diabetes and gum disease. Chronically high blood sugar levels can increase your chances for complications from gum disease. Bacteria including the millions of germs in your mouth can thrive in this situation. If you have diabetes, it is of the utmost importance to pursue good oral health habits.
Harmful plaque forms from the bacteria in your mouth and makes a sticky coating on your teeth. Your gums will swell and allow bacteria to enter your body. Not only will your gum disease get worse, but you will increase your chances of infection.
Even if you do not have diabetes or are pre-diabetic, if you have the symptoms of gum disease, you should contact your dentist. Those symptoms include gums that bleed easily or are sore; gums that red, inflamed or are sensitive. If you have diabetes, there are things you can do to protect yourself.
-Maintain control of your diabetes and check your glucose levels often.
-Faithfully take your diabetes medication and adjust it when recommended by your doctor or endocrinologist.
-Inform your dentist about your diabetes and then make regular dental visits for professional cleanings.
-Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
-Floss once a day at a minimum to reach the areas missed by brushing
If you are concerned about diabetes and dental health, Dr. Samuel Lambrecht will be happy to talk with you further. Please contact Orangeburg Dental Associates to make an appointment at 803-534-1020, or come by our office in Orangeburg, South Carolina.