Did you know there’s a connection between diabetes and oral health? Diabetes is a long-term illness that affects millions of people worldwide. Gum disease, tooth loss, and other dental issues are more prevalent among people with diabetes than those who do not have the condition.

So, what exactly is diabetes? And how does it affect oral health? Keep reading to find out.

What is Diabetes?

What is Diabetes - oral health and diabetes - Monroe Family Dentistry

Diabetes is a medical ailment that results when the body cannot properly produce or use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body to convert sugar into energy. Without insulin, sugar builds up in the bloodstream, causing serious health problems. Diabetes can lead to kidney damage, heart disease, stroke, and blindness.

There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t produce insulin at all. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or when the cells do not respond appropriately to insulin. With proper treatment, diabetes can be managed, but it cannot be cured.

Signs You Have Diabetes

– You are urinating more than usual

– You are feeling very thirsty

– You are feeling starving – even though you are eating

– You are losing weight without trying

– You have sores that heal slowly

– You have dry, itchy skin

– You feel tired all the time

How Diabetes Affects Oral Health

How Diabetes Affects Oral Health - diabetes and oral health - Monroe Family Dentistry

Diabetes is a chronic condition that can significantly impact oral health. Individuals with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, periodontal problems, and fungal infections such as thrush. In addition, diabetes can make it more challenging to recover from oral surgery and other dental procedures. This is because the condition can interfere with the body’s ability to heal wounds and fight infection. As a result, people with diabetes must be extra vigilant about oral hygiene and visit their dentist regularly.

Diabetes – Oral Health questionnaire Your Dentist May Ask

These are some questions about oral health and diabetes your dentist may ask you.

– When was your last dental visit?

– Do you have diabetes?

– How well are you controlling your blood sugar levels?

– Do you have any gum disease?

– Do you have any other health conditions?

– Are you taking any medication that might affect your oral health?

– Do you have any questions or concerns about your oral health?

Dental Action Plan for Your Diabetes

You may reduce or even prevent the effects of diabetes if you adhere to a healthy dental routine that includes self-care and expert care from your dentist. In this post, we’ll discuss five things you can do to promote your general health:

Control your blood sugar levels. Incorporating changes such as a healthier diet, increased exercise into your routine, and taking your diabetes medication as directed can help improve your health.

Avoid smoking. Because you have diabetes, you face an increased likelihood of gum disease. Quitting smoking will substantially lower your risk of gum disease.

Clean your denture daily. If you wear any removable dental prosthesis, such as dentures, clean them every day. Bacteria can accumulate on these devices and cause infection if left uncleaned.

Brush and floss every day. Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and don’t forget to clean between your teeth daily!

See your dentist every six months. Regular professional dental cleanings and exams can remove tartar buildup, detect problems early, and help you keep your smile healthy.

Dentist in Monroe

If you have diabetes, it is essential to take care of your oral health by brushing and flossing regularly, seeing a dentist every six months, and using other dental products recommended by your dentist.

If you want to schedule an appointment with our dentist, Dr. Khalil Mjahed, please call our office at 704-776-4278. We are located in Monroe, NC, and we would be happy to answer any questions you have about your oral health. Thank you for choosing us as your dental home!

Our Dental Practice in Monroe, NC

Monroe Family Dentistry is there for you and your children from day one and we are happy to work with you and your child to start habits from birth. If you live near Monroe, NC call us to schedule an appointment today at 704.776.4278.

These are just some of the services we provide. To learn more about our dental practice in Monroe NC and the services we provide, call us or submit an appointment request.

Summary
The Link Between Diabetes and Oral Health
Article Name
The Link Between Diabetes and Oral Health
Description
People with diabetes are more likely to experience oral health problems. Learn about the connection between diabetes and dental health from our dentists in Monroe, NC.
Dr. Mjahed's Team
Monroe Family Dentistry
Monroe Family Dentistry
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