Diabetes is a chronic disease which affects a growing number of people. Between 1999 and 2009, the number of people with diabetes doubled. Every day there were hundreds of new cases of diabetes, and every two hours an American was dying of diabetes. In 2015, up to 30 million Americans will have diabetes if we do nothing to stop the development. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you must be aware that it can affect every part of your body, even your teeth. For that reason, it is best you schedule regular checkups with your Dentist in Woodbury. These figures are taken from the Diabetes Association. Diabetes can reduce your immune system by infections and can delay the healing process.
The most common problems diabetes patients experience in the oral cavity are:
* Dental caries (tooth decay)
* Periodontitis
* Salivary gland dysfunction
* Fungal infections
* Inflammatory diseases such as lichen planus
* Infection and delayed healing
* Taste disturbance
It is important that your medical record is updated every time you are at the dental office of your dentist in Woodbury.
Your dentist should know
* Whether you have been diagnosed with diabetes since last visit
* If the disease is under control
* Whether there are other changes regarding your health since last visit
* The name of all medications you take, both prescription and non-prescription medicines
Periodontitis is something most diabetics have to worry about. It is inflammation of the gums and the bone that hold your teeth in place. Periodontal disease is often associated with the control of diabetes. For example, diabetes patients develop it with insufficient glycemic control, and it is often more severe and they lose more teeth than patients whose diabetes is under control. You should see your general dentist:
* If your gums easily bleed
* Red or tender gums
* Gums that have pulled back
* Pus between teeth and gums
* Persistent bad breath
* Permanent teeth begin to shift
* Bad taste in the mouth
Due to the reduced resistance and longer healing process, gingivitis and periodontal disease is more frequent and more severe in diabetic patients. Therefore, it is important to maintain stable blood sugar levels, eat a sensible diet, practice good oral care and regularly go to the dentist. Schedule an appointement with your dentist in Woodbury.