If you’re living with diabetes, you may already know how important it is to manage your blood sugar. But did you know diabetes also affects your oral health? Our Plano dentist wants you to know there’s a strong link between diabetes and gum disease.
Evidence suggests that people with diabetes are far more likely to develop gum problems than those without the condition. That means regular checkups with Dr. Ankita J Patel at Family Wellness Dentistry are even more important for diabetics. So, don’t wait until you notice gum problems – call our Plano, TX dentist at (972) 867-5989 to protect your smile and lower your A1C.
In this post, our Plano dentist explains the link between diabetes and gum disease and offers tips to protect your smile and overall health.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a serious infection of the gums. It starts as a reversible condition known as gingivitis and quickly progresses to a more severe, irreversible form of the disease known as periodontitis.
But what triggers gum disease? The simple answer is: Plaque.
Plaque is a gummy substance that contains germs and residual food, and it builds up on teeth pretty easily. Luckily, regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can remove plaque and keep gums healthy. However, if plaque is not removed, it can solidify into tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to inflammation, bleeding, and eventually gum recession.
Over time, untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Our Plano dentist explains that this process can be especially severe in patients with diabetes because their immune systems are often weakened, making it harder for their bodies to fight infection.
How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?
Diabetes raises blood sugar levels, which affects the entire body, including the mouth.
Our Plano dentist explains that when blood sugar is high, the body struggles to fight off harmful bacteria. This can cause infections like gum disease to develop more quickly and become more severe.
Also, high blood sugar leads to increased glucose levels in saliva, which creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. This increases plaque buildup and makes gum disease worse.
Lastly, if you have diabetes, your body may also take longer to heal, meaning any gum damage won’t repair itself easily.
Why Are Diabetics More Susceptible to Gum Disease?
Our Plano dentist explains that one key factor that makes diabetics more susceptible to gum disease is reduced blood flow. Diabetes often causes blood vessels to narrow, reducing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the gums. Poor circulation makes it harder for the gums to stay healthy and heal.
Additionally, diabetes can reduce saliva production. Saliva helps wash away food and bacteria, so a dry mouth can lead to faster plaque buildup and gum inflammation.
People with diabetes also tend to have a weaker immune response, making it harder to control the infection once it starts.
Signs of Gum Disease to Watch For
Recognizing gum disease early can make treatment easier and more effective. According to our Plano dentist, you should look for the following signs:
- Painfully swollen and red gums
- Bleeding while conducting gentle oral care
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums noticeably pulling away from the teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait. See your Plano dentist right away. Early intervention with Dr. Patel can prevent permanent damage and help keep your smile healthy.
How a Plano Dentist Can Help Diabetic Patients
Your Plano dentist plays a big role in keeping your gums healthy, especially if you have diabetes.
Dr. Patel can perform regular cleanings to remove plaque and tartar before they cause serious problems. She can also check for early signs of gum disease during routine visits. If gum disease is found, she will recommend treatments such as deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to stop the infection.
Our Plano dentist may also suggest antimicrobial rinses or special toothpaste to reduce bacteria in the mouth. Dr. Patel may even work closely with your doctor to ensure your diabetes and oral health are both under control.
The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
Our Plano dentist explains that even if your mouth feels fine, problems may be developing under the surface. That’s why it’s important to attend regular cleanings to remove plaque and tartar and help catch gum disease early.
By keeping up with dental visits at Family Wellness Dentistry, you can reduce your risk of tooth loss and other complications.
Remember: Our Plano dentist is your partner in both oral and overall health. These appointments may be the key to preventing serious issues down the road.
How Gum Disease Affects Your Overall Health
Gum disease isn’t just a dental problem – it’s a whole-body issue.
Our Plano dentist says that untreated gum infections can raise inflammation throughout the body. This can make it harder to manage diabetes and may even increase your risk for heart disease and stroke.
Some studies suggest a two-way relationship: diabetes makes gum disease worse, and gum disease makes it harder to control diabetes. That’s why keeping your gums healthy is vital. Your Plano dentist can help you stay ahead of these risks with proper care and regular checkups.
Get Diabetic Dental Care from a Plano Dentist Today!
Gum disease is a serious but preventable issue for people with diabetes. With proper oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and good blood sugar control, you can avoid the damage gum disease can cause.
Our Plano dentist is here to help every step of the way. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have lived with diabetes for years, Dr. Ankita J Patel is here to help you protect your gums, teeth, and overall health.
If you have diabetes and want to protect your teeth and gums, our friendly team is here for you. So, make your oral health a priority today. Click here to schedule a visit with your Plano dentist, or call Family Wellness Dentistry at (972) 867-5989 to take control of your smile!