Dental Care Helps Diabetics Preserve Oral Health

Dental care has always been considered a benefit to a patient’s oral health, but as more studies show a link between oral and physical health, the benefits of professional dental care have become even more apparent. Diabetes, specifically, is one disease that has been directly linked to oral health. Because diabetes affects a patient’s blood sugar level, it impacts the health of the teeth and gums. Unfortunately, it has been shown that diabetics are at an increased risk for a number of oral health problems. General dentistry is the best preventative tool available when it comes to preserving oral health and avoiding dental complications. While general dentistry services such as dental exams and cleanings should be a priority for all patients, they can be especially beneficial for those suffering from diabetes. At Dental Solutions, our dentists offer comprehensive dental care for diabetics. This allows our Warsaw, IN patients who suffer from this disease to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.

How Diabetes Affects Oral Health

Patients who suffer from diabetes are either unable to produce an adequate amount of insulin, or have a difficult time processing glucose. In either case, these patients are more likely to experience an increase in blood sugar levels. Heightened blood sugar levels can result in a number of physical side effects, including fatigue, nausea, blurry vision, and irritability. While not a noticeable symptom, high blood sugar can also affect the health of the teeth and gums. Bacteria thrive on sugar and starches, so patients with diabetes (especially those with uncontrolled diabetes) are more likely to have a buildup of bacteria around the teeth and gums. These bacteria can lead to tooth decay, infection, gum disease, and other dental complications.

Preventing Dental Complications from Diabetes

Although patients with diabetes need to be more vigilant about preserving their oral health, this disease does not mean that a person is destined for a lifetime of dental complications. There are several steps that diabetics can take to preserve oral health and minimize the risk of the oral health problems associated with diabetes. Below are some of the steps that diabetic patients should take to prevent dental complications:

• See a general physician regularly and take all prescribed medication as directed
• Track blood sugar levels to avoid spikes in glucose
• Brush the teeth at least twice a day, but preferably after each meal
• Floss at least once a day
• Drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth
• Schedule a routine dental exam and cleaning at least twice a year (some diabetic patients may require more frequent exams)
• Keep our dentists informed regarding diabetes and any medications that are taken
• If dental health problems arise, schedule necessary restorative work as soon as possible

With good at-home oral hygiene habits and the quality professional care that our dentists provide, most diabetic patients can enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile without the need for expensive and invasive dental treatments. Our dentists are happy to recommend an appropriate dental care plan that will allow our diabetic patients to avoid the most common oral health problems associated with diabetes.

Schedule an Appointment

At Dental Solutions, our goal is to help patients preserve their oral health and prevent dental complications. To achieve this goal, we offer a comprehensive range of general and restorative dental treatments that protect the health of the teeth and gums. To learn more about these dental services schedule an appointment with one of our experienced dentists at your earliest convenience.