I’m sure you’ve heard and perhaps even know someone with first hand experience that is dealing with the rapidly growing number of cases of diabetes our country is experiencing. For some of us, as we age, we get better, like a fine cabernet. For others we age less gracefully. However, diabetes affects both of us. Below are some of the lesser-known affects of how blood sugar control can also affect your oral health and teeth.
High Blood Sugar: we all know sugar erodes, you’ve seen that video of teeth in a glass of soda? High blood sugar not only means you’re more likely to have painful cavities, you are also more prone to periodontal disease (gum disease). Flossing is a great way to reduce gum infections. So too of course is getting your two- or three-times yearly dental exams.
Low Blood Sugar: perhaps you’ve seen yourself or someone you love have a low blood sugar episode. Although glucagon injections are now available, most diabetics I know still eat the quick and tasty candy bar or other sugary item. Even if a diabetic brushes and flosses every time they eat sugar, their teeth have to work extra hard to keep up.
Balanced Blood Sugar: Exercise and diet are of course the best way to achieve this. But, even the finest of red wines needs to be handled with great care – else it turns to vinegar. Advances in medicine have brought diabetes management to almost everyone. If you know someone who has struggled with diabetes but not been to the dentist, please make sure they get an exam. As I have said in previous articles the teeth are windows to our health! Second opinions at my office are always free.
Dr. Irene Glanville, DDS | Wellness Springs Dental 3460 LIBERTY RD S SALEM, OR 97302 | Phone: (503) 371-2424