Skip to main content

Diabetes and Gum Disease

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and at Healthy Smiles Family Dental in Salem, we want our patients to be aware of the link between diabetes and gum disease. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body does not produce enough insulin, the hormone that breaks down sugars. Lots of bodily systems are put at risk by it, and in the case of gum disease, there appears to be a mutually-reinforcing relationship.


One of the effects of diabetes is to thicken blood vessels, limiting the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach different parts of the body. This makes it harder for people with diabetes to fight off infections, including those of the gum pockets. In people with uncontrolled diabetes, gum infections are much likelier to develop into periodontal disease, putting the patient at risk for tooth loss as their gums and jaw bone tissue recede. There is also evidence that gum infections make it harder for patients’ bodies to regulate blood sugar, setting off a feedback loop.


Although gingivitis is common in people with diabetes, it is much less common if they maintain regular oral hygiene. Preventing gum disease has also been shown to improve insulin levels. We can show patients better oral hygiene techniques if they suffer from tooth decay or gum infections frequently. We can also do deep cleanings, which will reduce the risk of periodontal disease developing.


Dr. Na Xu operates Healthy Smiles Family Dental at 2601 25th St SE #400, Salem, Oregon, 97302. Visit My Family Dentist Salem or call 503-385-1185.

Comments

  1. For healthy smile you need a regular checkup. Visit dental doctor for maintaining healthy smile on your face. Schedule your checkup and cleaning twice in a year and also care clean your teeth twice in a day also use mouthwash for cleaning. For more advice about dental care in golden valley visit : Mintalar Family Dental

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What You Should Know About Periodontal Disease

Benefits of Teeth Whitening

Teeth become discolored by the foods we eat, the beverages we consume, and from lifestyle factors such as smoking, or taking certain medications. Discoloration is a natural part of life but when a patient desires a whiter smile, teeth whitening or bleaching can improve the color of teeth by several shades. At Healthy Smiles Family Dental, Dr. Na Xu gives patients the option to whiten in-office, or in the comfort of his or her own home. Teeth bleaching is one of the most common dental procedures that is performed across the country. Once the teeth become brighter, a person will feel a boost in his or her self-esteem and may desire to smile more than ever before. After scheduling a consultation to decide if whitening is right for you, Dr. Xu will either recommend whitening at home, with custom trays that will be created for you in the office, or laser whitening. If you have questions or concerns regarding teeth whitening or bleaching, please give us a call. To learn about services provid

Gum Disease Stage 2: Periodontitis

When gingivitis is left untreated, it will advance to periodontitis. Periodontitis is inflammation of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. When periodontitis is left untreated, teeth can eventually fall out. Our doctors at Healthy Smiles Family Dental want patients to keep their permanent teeth for a lifetime, which is why we encourage all of them to take preventive measures when it comes to oral health. Periodontitis is caused by the build-up of bacteria in the form of dental plaque. The best way to avoid plaque build-up is by keeping the teeth as clean as possible by brushing at least twice a day for two minutes and flossing at least once a day. As inflammation progresses in the gums, it will cause the gums to recede and the tooth roots to become exposed. This will cause pain, sensitivity, and soreness. Healthy gums are firm and pink in color, if your gums don’t fall into this category, schedule an appointment, today. If you have questions or concerns regarding periodonta