Even though the importance of healthy gums for diabetic patients has been well documented a new report in the British Dental Journal has confirmed that most diabetes patients do not understand the link. Researchers surveyed adults visiting a diabetes clinic and discovered that only 13% of participants knew that swollen or tender gums could be affected by diabetes and vice-versa — that their diabetes could make their gum disease worse.

Inflammation from gums with periodontal disease can make it more difficult for diabetics to manage their blood sugar levels, can lead to increased deaths from oral cancer and is linked to heart disease. This study shows that patient education about the importance of oral health and its effects on general health is still lacking. At StoneRidge Dental Care we believe it is important that our patients understand these links. For diabetic patients it is especially important that brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily and visiting the dentist on a regular basis become part of their normal routine.

Protecting the health of your gums and teeth by scheduling regular dental hygiene visits starts with a simple phone call to Mark Levy, DDS in the Columbus, OH area  at 614-476-6696. If you have avoided dental visits because of anxiety or fear please remember to ask about sedation dentistry. You can receive all the dental care you have been putting off without anxiety or discomfort.