WHY SHOULD PEOPLE WITH DIABETES PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THEIR TEETH & ORAL HYGIENE?
What many do not know: Diabetes also has a large impact on your overall dental health. Unfortunately, diabetics are more likely to develop periodontitis and other dental diseases than non-diabetics. In addition, untreated periodontitis might even worsen diabetes. The insidious: Both diseases develop quietly and secretly without complaints and are often only noticed late. In this article of Dr. Pascal Terjanian blog we discuss how to spot the signs of periodontal ( gum) disease and why is it essential to keep regular check-ups and dental cleanings with your dentist.
SIGNS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Diabetes and periodontitis are so common that they are considered widespread diseases in this country. Dentists refer to periodontitis as an inflammation of the tooth-supporting structure. It occurs when bacterial plaque builds up. First, the gums become inflamed, then they shrink away from the tooth.
Without treatment, the tooth would eventually loosen and, in the worst case, fall out. Fortunately, everyone can do a lot for improvement and prevention by themselves. That means: minimize risks, i.e. brush your teeth regularly and carefully, take the first signs of periodontitis, such as swollen gums, seriously, and, as a diabetic, pay attention to optimal blood sugar levels.
IT IS ESSENTIAL TO KEEP REGULAR CHECK-UPS & CLEANINGS WITH YOUR DENTIST
Basically, everyone should attend the check-up appointments in the dental practice at least twice a year. Particularly in the case of periodontitis, a close-knit check is carried out. The dentist removes the bacterial deposits from the tooth surfaces and also from the gingival pockets, if necessary under local anesthesia. He or she also explains to his patients how good dental care can prevent bacterial plaque from re-forming and inflammation from developing. In addition, patients should regularly have their teeth cleaned professionally by a trained dental professional such as a dental hygienist or a dentist.
