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Thursday, May 12, 2011

Diabetes and Dental Hygiene


What are the dental problems Diabetic patient experiences ?

• Decrease in salivary flow.
• Burning mouth or tongue.
• Dry mouth also may develop, causing an increased incidence of decay.
• Gum recession has been found to occur more frequently and more extensively in moderate-and poorly-controlled diabetic patients because plaque responds differently, creating more harmful proteins in the gums.
• Diabetics tend to lose collagen, a protein that supports gums, skin, tendon cartilage, and bone, in their gum tissue thus hastening periodontal destruction.
• The diabetics had more plaque on their teeth and experienced more bleeding of their gums when being examined.

The first signs are red, sore, and bleeding gums. This can lead to periodontitis, which is an infection in the gums and the bone that holds the teeth in place. Pockets form between the teeth, which fill with germs and pus. If not treated and the infection gets worse, your gums may pull away from your teeth, making the teeth look very long, and your teeth will loosen.

What is the best time to receive dental care?

• If your blood sugar is not under control, talk with both your dentist and physician about receiving elective dental care.

• Dental procedures should be as short and as stress free as possible.

• Make morning appointments because blood glucose levels tend to be under better control at this time of day.

• If you have a scheduled appointment, eat and take your medications as directed.

• Test your blood sugar level and take your blood pressure and bring these results with you to our office.

• Be prepared to update your health/dental history at each visit so we can provide you with the best possible care for your condition.

• See your doctor before scheduling treatment for periodontal disease. Have your doctor send your dentist records on your overall medical condition BEFORE treatment starts.

• Postpone non-emergency dental procedures if your blood sugar is not in good control. However, abscesses should be treated right away.

• See your dentist on a regular basis, every 3 to 4 months, for exams and cleanings. Keep him informed of your health status and if you have any problems controlling your blood sugar.

• Know that healing time will take longer due to your diabetic condition.

• Follow your individualized meal plan and learn more about meal planning and diabetes for better blood sugar control.

2 comments:

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  2. People who have diabetes know the disease can harm the eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart and other important systems in the body. Did you know diabetes can also cause problems in your mouth? People with diabetes are at special risk for periodontal (gum) disease, an infection of the gum and bone that hold the teeth in place. Periodontal disease can lead to painful chewing difficulties and even tooth loss. Dry mouth, often a symptom of undetected diabetes, can cause soreness, ulcers, infections, and tooth decay. Smoking makes these problems worse. It is very important to follow good dental hygiene and keep on sanitizing your dental products to keep your dental condition healthy.

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