November is National Diabetes Month. Why does this matter to you and your Century City cosmetic dentist?

Link between Oral Health and Diabetes

A 2014 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that nearly 10 percent of the American population has diabetes. Nearly 26 percent of those are seniors over the age of 65. Additionally, diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S.

However, you may not be aware that there is a two-way relationship between diabetes and oral health. Specifically, research indicates an increased probability of gum disease among diabetics. The problem is that gum disease infects the gums and increases blood sugar levels leading to a higher risk of diabetic complications. Proper flossing and brushing becomes a vital part of a diabetic’s daily routine.

Conversely, the American Diabetes Association suggests that practicing good oral hygiene might help prevent diabetes because “serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.”

Therefore, your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist wants to share the importance of good oral hygiene both to limit the potential that you might develop diabetes as well as to control potential oral health problems – such as gingivitis, periodontitis, thrush, and oral cancer – for those who already have the disease.

Diabetics Need to Take Special Care with Oral Hygiene

While everyone needs to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent dental as well as other potential medical issues, those with diabetes should keep these additional tips in mind.

• Diabetes lowers your resistance to infection and potentially increases healing time. Keep your Century City cosmetic dentist aware of changes in your medical condition or medication. Postpone non-emergency dental procedures when blood glucose levels aren’t normal.
• High blood sugar may cause dry mouth. Saliva fights oral germs and prevents bad breath. A decrease in saliva may increase the bacteria in your mouth and, therefore, increase the chance of gum disease and tooth decay.
• Smoking increases the potential you’ll get gum disease, mouth or throat cancer, and other infections. Additionally, it raises your risk of diabetic complications. If you smoke, stop smoking immediately.
• Diabetics who wear dentures should not wear them continuously due to the potential risk of thrush, a fungal infection. If you are a denture wearer, be sure to follow the advice of your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist to prevent problems.

The only way to keep your mouth healthy is to practice good oral hygiene and to talk with your dentist about proper dental.

Just because you have diabetes, doesn’t mean you will have dental problems. Practice common sense when it comes to your dental and medical health.