SEVEN HILLS DENTAL
Family, Orthodontic & Implant Dentistry
Periodontal Disease and Diabetes
It is well documented that people who suffer from diabetes are more susceptible to developing infections than non-diabetes sufferers. But few know about periodontal disease, which often lies at the root of yet another complication in Type 1 Diabetes patients - poor control over their blood sugar levels can lead not only to increased chances for infection but also an increase risk factor for gum inflammation called periapicalgersiosis.
Gum disease is a progressive condition that often leads to tooth loss if left untreated. It begins with an infection in the gingival tissue which surrounds your teeth, and as this bacteria colonize they form deeper pockets - eventually attacking underlying bone cells along their path of destruction until there's nothing left but holes where you used to have enamel on metal!
Diabetes is a serious condition which can lead to heart disease and stroke. Type II diabetics are unable to regulate insulin levels, while those with type I do not produce any of it at all; this leaves them vulnerable for lifelong complications such as blindness or kidney failure.
Reasons for the Connection
Experts suggest the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease can worsen both conditions if either condition is not properly controlled.
Here are ways in which diabetes and periodontal disease are linked:
Diagnosis and Treatment
A visit to the dentist can make a significant impact on your diabetes. Simply by treating periodontal disease with non-surgical treatments, patients have seen their HbA1c counts drop by up 20%.
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The dentist will use their medical history, family tree and dental X-rays to assess the risk factors for periodontal disease. They'll determine if you have diabetes as well which may be linked with your gum health or oral hygiene habits in order that they can work together effectively towards maintaining both conditions at bay--and keep those pearly whites clean!
The dentist and dental hygienist can perform a number of procedures to help patients maintain their oral hygiene. These include deep scaling, where calculus (tartar) will be removed from the teeth above and below the gum line; root planing which removes remaining bacteria in order for healing an antibiotic may also applied if needed.
The dentist and hygienist will recommend proper home care to prevent further bacteria colonization before, during or after periodontal treatment. They may also prescribe prescription mouthwashes that deter the growth of Streptococcus mutans (a major cause for tooth decay) in your mouth.