PGA Center for Advanced Dentistry is one of the most trusted names in dental care in the Palm Beach Gardens. Patients can rely on our dentists for Comprehensive Restorative Dentistry Treatments That Improve Dental Health. This means treatments for tooth decay, gum disease, and many other problems a person may face.
If you suffer from diabetes, you know that you face a number of serious health challenges. This includes an increased risk of general health issues, often related to heart disease and stroke. Yet diabetics also face a number of dental health issues that have to be taken seriously. Let’s look at these right now.
Increased Risk of Gum Disease
Diabetics run a high risk of infection, which means that they are more likely to develop gum disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue that is caused by oral bacteria also responsible for bad breath and tooth decay.
There are three stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
- Advanced Periodontitis
Left untreated, gum disease can result in gum recession, loose teeth, dental misalignment, tooth loss, and the spread of infection to other parts of the mouth.
Tooth Decay May Be Accelerated
In addition to the increased risk of gum disease, diabetics also face an increased risk of tooth decay. This is often due to issues with blood sugar. Oral bacteria love to feed on food particles in the mouth, with a special affinity for sugars and carbs. If you have diabetes, you may have major issued with accelerated tooth decay.
Issues with Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a major inconvenience at times, making it difficult to chew, swallow, and speak. It’s also a problem that many diabetics face. In addition to being an annoyance, dry mouth can actually make various dental problems worse. This includes gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
Potential of Thrush
Gum disease isn’t the only infection that diabetics have to be wary of. Diabetics also run a risk of contracting a type of yeast infection known as thrush. Thrush can affect the inside of the mouth as well as the lips and area around the lips, causing an unsightly rash to form.
Tips for Ensuring Good Dental Health
The best thing that a diabetic patient can do for his or her own dental health is to monitor their blood sugar and be especially mindful of any dental issues they encounter.
To help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, the following tips should be considered:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day (ideally after every meal)
- Floss your teeth at least once a night (ideally after every meal)
- Drink water throughout the day to keep hydrated and maintain moisture in the mouth
- Quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Visit Your Dentist for Regular Checkups
It’s also of the utmost importance that patients visit their dentist twice a year for regular checkups. This will allow minor problems to be addressed as soon as possible, preventing major dental problems from developing or occurring.
Learn More About General Dental Care
To learn more about the dental care needs of diabetic patients, be sure to Contact Our Cosmetic And Restorative Dentistry Center today. The team at PGA Center for Advanced Dentistry looks forward to your visit and helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.
Board certified in dental implant surgery and caring for Palm Beach Gardens patients since 1987.