According to the CDC, over 34 million Americans have diabetes. Perhaps you are one of them. Let’s talk about oral health for diabetics. Many Santa Maria individuals with diabetes have dental dilemmas. However, gingivitis (gum disease), and cavities are not unavoidable for those affected by diabetes.
Blood Sugar and Oral Health
Blood sugar is a complicating factor for a healthy mouth. Santa Maria diabetics who control their blood sugar have lower rates of tooth problems. In fact, many dentists have noticed no increased risk of dental disease among diabetics who maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
When blood sugar levels rise, the amount of sugars and starches increase in your mouth. These substances combine with the bacteria naturally present to create enamel-eroding plaque. Untreated plaque an bring about tooth decay.
Diabetes Affects Gum Tissue
In addition to cavities, Santa Maria dental patients with diabetes need to be wary about gum health. Because diabetes can make it harder to control the growth of bacteria, the amount of plaque in your mouth can multiply quicker. Plaque not only causes cavities, but it also inflames and weakens gum tissue and eventually the bone surrounding teeth.
Don’t Let Gum Disease Progress
Untreated gum disease progresses to periodontitis, a more severe infection. Because Santa Maria diabetics have a lower resistance to infection, it can be difficult to reverse periodontitis in people with diabetes. To make matters even worse, the presence of infection can make it harder to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.
Bottom line?
- Brush and floss regularly to prohibit plaque build-up.
- See your dentist for twice-yearly cleanings to remove any plaque and tartar that has accumulated under the gumline.
Doctor McNeil-Amorteguy of Deborah McNeil-Amorteguy DDS is accepting new patients in the San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay Pismo Beach, and Arroyo Grande area. We can help diabetic dental patients keep their smile beautiful.
Has Diabetes Already Affected Your Dental Health?
If you are in need of cosmetic dentistry because of diabetes-related decay or gum disease, we can restore your beautiful smile with the latest tooth restoration options. Ask us about crowns, dental implants, implant anchored dentures, porcelain veneers, inlays/onlays, and same-day restorations. We provide the full spectrum of dental services.
Deborah McNeil-Amorteguy DDS is located at 4472 Broad St, Suite 160 in San Luis Obispo. Call us at 805-543-3016 to schedule a consultation. Thanks for visiting the Deborah McNeil-Amorteguy DDS San Luis Obispo dentistry blog!
Contact Deborah McNeil-Amorteguy DDS:
805-543-3016
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
4472 Broad St, Suite 160
San Luis Obispo, California
93401
