Preventative Care, Oral Health and Diabetes

It's helpful to think of your mouth as a kind of “early warning system” for your health. This is specially if you have diabetes. Unfortunately, diabetes makes you more likely to develop gum problems, like gingivitis (early stage) and periodontitis (more serious). A body with diabetes reacts more strongly to normal mouth bacteria, leading to more inflammation and damage over time. People with diabetes also struggle with dry mouth. When there’s less saliva, your mouth can’t wash away food, sugar, and bacteria as well, which makes it easier for problems to develop. The good news? These issues don’t happen overnight. By practicing good preventative care, you can head these issues off.

It really comes down to a few simple habits. You probably know them already. Brush twice a day (for around 2 minutes each time), floss twice a day, and see your dentist regularly. If you maintain these healthy habits, you'll do a lot to prevent gum disease and stay healthy. Besides practicing healthy habits, it is important for you to find to take an active interest in your oral health and find a dentist who understands diabetes. The more you know, the better off you'll be. To help your dentist provide the best care possible, be honest about your blood sugar control and keep to your normal eating/medication schedule before visiting your dentist.

Remember: oral health and overall health are intertwined. Taking care of your mouth isn’t separate from managing diabetes. Good oral hygiene + regular dental visits + keeping your blood sugar in check all work together to protect your teeth, gums, and overall health.

If you live in the Hudson Valley, NY, and are looking for a dental office that truly understands the connection between oral health and diabetes, we would be happy to help. You can call (845) 244-3082 or email drhwettels@gmail.com to schedule an appointment.