Steps diabetic patients can take to ensure optimal dental care

• Find a dentist who is aware of the needs of diabetic patients.
• See the dentist on a regular basis and alert him or her of any changes in health status and medications.
• Inform the dentist of any sores, swellings, or areas of redness in the mouth, as well as any painful areas in the mouth.
• Eat a normal meal prior to the dental appointment, take all diabetic medications on schedule, bringing a blood sugar monitoring device to the appointment, and inform the dentist if symptoms associated with low blood sugar are felt.

20 Million Diabetics...are you one?

It is estimated that up to 20 million people have diabetes, but only two-thirds of these individuals are diagnosed. Studies have shown that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal (gum) disease than those who do not have diabetes. Oral infections tend to be more severe in diabetic patients than non-diabetic patients. And, diabetics who do not have good control over their blood sugar levels tend to have more oral health problems. These infections occur more often after puberty and in aging patients

Who Else Has Diabetes ...And... Gum Problems?

So, is there really a connection between diabetes and gum disease? Well, the clinical documentation says: "Yes!" -- diabetes lowers your body's resistance to infection, and the gums are among the first tissues likely to be affected. Periodontal diseases are infections of the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place. Periodontal disease is often linked to the control of diabetes. For example, patients with inadequate blood sugar control appear to develop periodontal disease more often and more severely, and they lose more teeth than persons who have good control of their diabetes.
It is possible to have periodontal disease and not have all of the warning signs. If you notice any of the warning signs of gum disease, see your dentist immediately. Because of lowered resistance and a longer healing process, periodontal diseases often appear to be more frequent and more severe among persons with diabetes. That's why good maintenance of blood sugar levels, a well-balanced diet that meets your needs, good oral care at home, regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important.

Why Do Diabetics Need Regular Dental Check-Ups?

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs. That is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very important. Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. Good oral hygiene at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious or recurring. You don't have to lose teeth to periodontal disease. Brush, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

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There Is A War Going On In Your Mouth!

There are more than 300 different species of bacteria attacking your gums and teeth 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Any of these can lead to inflammation and infection. Any of these can launch or worsen gum problems. Diabetics are predisposed to bacterial infections, so the dangers to you are much greater than for others. And all the brushing, flossing and WaterPiks® in the world are just not enough to stop these bacterial toxins waging war on your mouth.
If you have gum problems, it may not be as simple as having a "bad flossing disease" - and in your dentist's office, you won't get a finger-wagging, sharp voiced lecture on flossing! We understand that these bacteria and bacterial infections thrive on the sugars you have trouble regulating, and that you need a multi-faceted treatment approach including our help to win this war!