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 Loveland men and women with diabetes have dental issues. However, gum disease and tooth decay are not unavoidable for those affected by diabetes. The Fort Collins Dentist offers guidance and care to help manage your oral health while living with diabetes.
Blood Sugar and Oral Health
Blood sugar is a complicating factor for a healthy mouth. Loveland diabetics who control their blood sugar have lower rates of tooth and gum 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 can lead to tooth decay.
Diabetes Affects Gum Tissue
In addition to cavities, Loveland dental patients with diabetes need to be cautious about gum health. Because diabetes can make it harder to control the growth of bacteria, the amount of plaque in your mouth can multiply quickly. 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 Loveland 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 prevent plaque build-up.
- See your dentist for twice-yearly cleanings to remove any plaque and tartar that has accumulated under the gumline.
Doctor Lesko of The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is accepting new patients in the Fort Collins, Wellington Windsor, and Timnath areas. 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.
The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is located at 2001 S Shields St Bldg L in Fort Collins. Call us to schedule a consultation. Thanks for visiting the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Fort Collins dentistry blog!
Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:
970-221-5115
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526