543 Dental Centre is supporting Diabetes UK’s National Diabetes Week 2017 (11th-17th June) in order to help increase awareness of the disease. What does diabetes have to do with dentistry? A lot more than you’d think! Read on…
- Did you know…? If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you are 3 to 4 times more likely to develop periodontal disease- with a higher rate of more severe levels of bone loss and gum infection.
- Periodontal disease is the sixth-leading complication of diabetes. During the past 10 years, much research has been undertaken on the link between diabetes and periodontal disease.
- Well-controlled diabetes helps keep your mouth healthy. If you have poorly-controlled or high blood sugar, you have a higher chance of dry mouth, gum disease, tooth loss, and fungal infections like thrush.
- Feeling under the weather? Infections or stress can contribute to a higher blood sugar, which in turn could make your diabetes harder to control.
- Remember to tell your dentist if you have diabetes and what medicines you take! People with diabetes are more likely to have oral infections. Ensure you keep regular dental appointments.
- Regular check-ups and professional cleanings can help keep your mouth healthy. Your dentist can teach you the best ways to care for your teeth and gums at home.
- Diabetic denture wearer? Loose-fitting or poorly-maintained dentures can lead to gum irritation and infections. It’s important to talk to your dentist about any changes in the fit of your dentures. Remove and clean your dentures daily to help lower your risk of infection.
- Did you know…? If you have diabetes and you smoke, you have even higher odds of developing gum disease. Tobacco can damage tissue and cause receding gums. It can also speed up bone and tissue loss.
- See your dentist regularly to catch gum disease early on. Regular dental check-ups are important because your dentist can spot gum disease even when you don’t have any pain or symptoms.
- Know what to look for between dental visits? Examine your teeth and gums yourself for early signs of trouble, as infections can move fast. If you notice redness, swelling, bleeding, loose teeth, dry mouth, pain, or any other symptoms that worry you, talk to your dentist straight away.
- Diabetes can lower your resistance to infection and slow the healing process. If you are due to have oral surgery, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to minimise the risk of infection. To help the healing process, keep your blood glucose levels under control before, during and after surgery.
If you, or someone you love, is living with diabetes, we strongly suggest you consider joining 543 Dencare. This is our in-house ‘dental health club’ and includes all of your preventive care, including two dental check-ups and two hygienist visits per year, all from as little as £12.50 per month. 543 Dencare is a great way to help ensure diabetes doesn’t get the best of your teeth. Call us today on 07772 640585 to learn more.
