Diabetes And Your Oral Health

Dealing with diabetes can create a host of health difficulties, including problems inside your mouth. Diabetes hurts your ability to fight bacteria, thus promoting the rapid growth of bacteria in your mouth.

Detrimental Effects Of High Blood Sugar

Having high blood sugar can increase your chance of dry mouth and gum disease. It can also lead to tooth loss and infections of the mouth. Infections can cause your blood sugar to rise. Not only could your diabetes be causing your gum disease, but the infections it causes could be directly related to the rising blood sugar levels you are seeing. If your gums are still bleeding and you cannot keep your blood sugar levels under control, it is recommended that you visit your trusted dental expert before you develop serious health issues, such as periodontitis. Periodontitis occurs when your gums pull away from your teeth and fill with pus. At this point, gum surgery may be necessary to save your teeth.

What Can You Do?

You should first seek to control your blood glucose level, and get this at a controllable level. Once you have accomplished this, you should practice good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing daily will remove pesky bacteria from your mouth, which will reduce your risk of gum disease. Maintaining good oral health is important to your overall health.

Should You Tell Your Dentist?

Yes! You should absolutely be upfront with your dentist about your diabetes. Your local Californian dentist will have the equipment necessary to deal with the special needs your diabetes present. Your dentist should also be made aware of any medications you are taking, as this will impact how your dentist chooses to treat you. If your dentist recommends any oral surgeries, you should ensure that your blood sugar is in control before proceeding.