WHAT IS DIABETES?
Drs. Angela Rasmussen and Amanda del Cueto of Gentle Dentistry can help patients understand the connection between diabetes and oral care. Diabetes is a special metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar or glucose levels. This can impact the body’s cellular response to glucose or inadequate production of glucose, depending on the type of diabetes diagnosed. Approximately one out of ten cases of diabetes are considered Type 1 and often develop before the age of 40, while Type 2 diabetes accounts for the rest of the cases diagnosed yearly. Patients who have excess belly fat or are obese are at a significantly higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in their lifetime.
HOW IS DIABETES RELATED TO THE MOUTH?
Studies continue to show that severe gum disease has a link to one’s increased glucose levels, and those who have Type 2 diabetes, when left uncontrolled, are at a much higher risk of developing periodontal disease. In addition to these concerns, diabetes can also impact one’s immune system, making it harder for those with the condition to manage their overall health and wellness and fight infections. It can also increase the risk of infection and slower healing in patients who undergo dental surgeries. For those who are on diabetes medication, it is important to be aware of conditions such as dry mouth, a common side effect that can significantly reduce the saliva needed in the mouth to flush out food particles between the teeth.
FAMILY HISTORY LINK
In many cases, type 1 diabetes is often inherited through the family, though it requires both parents to have the gene to give one a predisposition to diabetes. Family history is a strong link in those with Type 2 diabetes, though there is also a genetic factor in obesity which can make it difficult to determine the exact link.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DIABETES AND YOUR ORAL HEALTH
Diabetes dental care needs to be at the forefront of your oral health and wellness.
If you have diabetes and are struggling with periodontal disease, you are not alone. Call Gentle Dentistry at (813) 734-7102 and speak to our Tampa, FL team about your needs.
