Q: I'm a diabetic. Are my dental needs different from those of non-diabetics?
A: Yes, Regular dental checkups are important for everyone. But they are even
more important for people who have diabetes, a disease that can lower a person's
resistance to infection and slow the healing process. Those two factors leave
diabetics more prone to gum disease, also called periodontal disease. Some
of the signs of the signs of that disease are gums that have swollen, turned
red or tender and that bleed easily. Loosened teeth are also a sign of gum
disease.
Diabetics are more susceptible to gum disease for a number of reasons. Generally they develop more plaque, the film in which colonies of bacteria develop This may be because diabetics generate less saliva to help wash plaque away. Diabetics also have a higher sugar level in their oral fluids, which affects plaque build-up. They are also likely to have reduced circulation, which can hinder the flow of nutrition to the gums and slow healing.
Studies have shown that patients who carefully control their diabetes under the advice of their primary physician have less trouble with gum disease. Nevertheless, close monitoring at home for any changes in the mouth and regular visits to the dentist are essential for diabetics. If you are a diabetic, talk with your dentist about the extra steps you should take to preserve your oral health.
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