At The Plano Dentist, we are concerned not only with the condition of your mouth, but also with how it influences your health in general.
Today’s post looks at the connection between diabetes and oral health.
Scientists have known for quite some time that people with diabetes have higher rates of gum disease. Maintaining proper blood glucose levels is the key to minimizing the risk of gum disease and related problems for those affected.
Researchers are now looking into whether poor oral health increases the risk of developing diabetes. Findings from a long-term study suggests that it does.
“We found that over two decades of follow-up, individuals who had periodontal disease were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life when compared to individuals without periodontal disease.” -Ryan T. Demmer, PhD, MPH1
Additional trials are exploring how tooth and gum health impacts the ability of diabetics to manage the disease.
“Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to serious gum disease, but serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.”2
If you have diabetes, it is vital that you see a dentist regularly and are dedicated to daily oral hygiene, proper nutrition, and other important practices. Furthermore, your success in controlling your blood glucose levels will improve your oral health and vice-versa.
If you don’t have a dentist and live in Plano or the greater Dallas area, give our office a call at 469-998-0235. Our experienced staff will treat your teeth and gums to a professional dental cleaning. Then, we will create a great plan for improving and maintaining your dental health for life, including working with your other doctors if necessary.
1Angelo Milone, “Does periodontal disease cause type 2 diabetes?,” Endocrine Today, November 2008, http://www.healio.com/endocrinology/diabetes/news/print/endocrine-today/%7Bacdccbd7-a2b2-4a9e-ac08-b29b53116908%7D/does-periodontal-disease-cause-type-2-diabetes, accessed August 12, 2015
2“Diabetes and Oral Health Problems,” American Diabetes Association, September 18, 2012, http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/oral-health-and-hygiene/diabetes-and-oral-health.html#sthash.9IlHJB8l.dpuf, accessed August 12, 2015
Contact The Plano Dentist:
469-998-0235
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3115 W Parker Rd Ste C538
Plano, Texas
75023
