Diabetes and Oral Health Linked by Pella General Dentist

Tomorrow is National Diabetes Alert Day, but we should be aware of the issues of diabetes all through the year.  While many of the medical risks associated with this potentially life-threatening condition are well known, people may not be aware of the connection between diabetes and your dental health. Pella general dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Allen, talks about what symptoms diabetics should look for, and what course of treatment they should take.

Can Diabetes Lead to Gum Disease?

Diabetics do, unfortunately, tend to have a higher tendency toward periodontal disease (various levels of gum disease). Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in your mouth. P. gingivalis can attack and destroy your gingival tissues. Since diabetics tend to be more susceptible to bacterial infections in general, it makes sense that they might be more susceptible to bacteria invading their mouths.

“D” is for Diligent Oral Self Care for Diabetics

When gum disease isn’t treated, it can eventually destroy the gum tissue that surrounds your teeth. This can cause teeth to become loose, require extraction, or even fall out on their own. For this reason, it’s imperative that diabetics keep up with good oral health practices, including daily brushing and flossing. Maintaining a checkup schedule every six months with your Pella general dentist is another wise idea. It is extremely important that diabetics keep their dentists informed of any particular pertinent issues related to their condition. Dentists know what to look for in the mouths of their diabetic patients to ensure that any gum disease is diagnosed and treated expediently.

Comprehensive Dentistry from Pella General Dentist

Whether you are diabetic or not, you should still see your Pella general dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. Preventive dental care can ensure that you have a healthy smile for years to come. Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call our 50219 dentist office at (641) 628-1121 today to schedule an appointment, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit. We are located on the west side of the historic town square in Pella, IA. Please see the map for directions.