November is American Diabetes Month, and it is a good time to talk about a connection many of my patients have never heard about: diabetes and gum disease affect each other.
A two-way relationship
Diabetes makes gum disease more likely. When blood sugar runs high, the body has a harder time fighting infection, including the bacteria that cause gum disease. People with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, and it tends to be more severe.
Gum disease can make blood sugar harder to control. Gum disease is an ongoing infection and inflammation in the mouth. Research suggests that this inflammation can make it harder to keep blood sugar in a healthy range. Studies have also found that treating gum disease may help with blood sugar control.
In other words, taking care of your gums is part of taking care of your diabetes.
Other ways diabetes can affect your mouth
Dry mouth. Less saliva means less natural protection against cavities.
Slower healing after dental procedures.
Fungal infections such as thrush, which can show up as white patches.
A higher risk of cavities, especially when blood sugar is often high.
Signs to watch for
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Gums pulling back from the teeth
Bad breath that does not go away
Teeth that feel loose
If you notice any of these, do not wait for your next routine visit.
What you can do
1. Keep your blood sugar as close to your target as you can. This is the single biggest thing that protects your gums.
2. Brush twice a day and floss once a day. It sounds simple because it is, and it matters more when you have diabetes.
3. Keep up with regular cleanings. Some patients with diabetes benefit from more frequent cleanings. We will recommend a schedule based on what we see.
4. Tell us about your diabetes and your medications. It helps us plan your care and time your appointments safely.
5. Do not smoke. Smoking and diabetes together raise the risk of gum disease significantly.
A tip for appointment day
Eat your normal meal and take your medications as usual before your visit, unless your physician tells you otherwise. Let us know if you feel shaky or lightheaded at any point.
We are here to help
If you have diabetes and it has been a while since your last cleaning, call us at [(407) 767-0633] (tel:+14077670633). We work with most major PPO plans and will check your coverage before your visit.
Magnolia Springs Dentistry
703 Magnolia Drive, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
[(407) 767-0633] (tel:+14077670633)
This article is general information, not medical advice. Please follow your physician's guidance for managing diabetes.