Brushing, flossing and maintaining good oral health are important for everyone.  For patients with diabetes, however, maintaining healthy teeth and gums is critical.

Patients with diabetes are three times for more likely to contract periodontal disease and tooth decay.  Unfortunately, the presence of gum disease also makes controlling blood sugar more difficult.

One of the complications of diabetes is the thickening of blood vessels which slows the flow of nutrients into the body’s tissues and also slows the removal of waste products. One of the early effects of diabetes may show up in the mouth as gum disease.  It is well known that patients who experience frequent or severe gum disease may have diabetes.

If your diabetes is not under control you not only have elevated blood sugar but you also have elevated levels of sugar in your saliva.  Diabetic patients commonly experience “dry mouth” or reduced saliva production as well.  The combination then leads to explosive growth of oral bacteria and sets up perfect conditions for tooth decay.

Practicing good oral hygiene at home and visiting the dentist on a regular basis can help diabetic patients control or even eliminate periodontal disease.  The combination of brushing and flossing after each meal, regular dental cleanings and controlling blood glucose levels can help maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.

If you are a diabetic patient please contact Dr. Mark Levy in Gahanna, Ohio at 614-476-6696 to schedule your dental hygiene appointment. A healthier mouth means a healthier you!