Can Diabetes Affect Your Oral Health?

Diabetes and Oral Health Chevy CHase MD Diabetes is currently affecting millions of people all over the world. Patients with diabetes may have a hard time processing insulin or producing it. Patients with diabetes also have a higher risk of stroke, heart disease, and developing severe problems regarding major organs. Diabetes can even have a negative effect on your oral health. If you have diabetes, you may have a more difficult time fighting off an infection than patients with diabetes. You are more prone to developing dental problems like dry mouth, thrush, and infections, and gum disease.

Chevy Chase dentist Dr. Christopher Banks works with patients with diabetes to help them achieve a healthier smile. Taking the time to properly examine the teeth and gums to identify any early signs of complex dental problems can help patients get the treatment they need to achieve a healthier, more functional smile.

Oral Health and Diabetes

Patients with diabetes are more prone to certain kinds of dental conditions, so it is important to take the necessary steps to keep your oral health on track. Patients should develop and execute an excellent oral hygiene routine. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day, floss, and use an antibacterial rinse. It is also important to be under the direct care of an experienced physician who can advise you on the appropriate methods to control your blood sugar and lead a healthy lifestyle. Just to be aware, patients should know the signs of dental concerns so they can alert their doctor of any changes to their oral health and get the treatment they need.

  • Dry Mouth: Patients with diabetes are more prone to developing a dry mouth. Patients with dry mouth don’t produce the necessary amount of saliva needed to protect the mouth. Patients with dry mouth may experience a sore throat, mouth sores, halitosis, and an increased risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay.
  • Gum (Periodontal) Disease: Gum disease is an infection of the gums which can lead to tooth loss if not properly treated. Patients with diabetes have a higher chance of losing teeth due to gum disease. Patients with gum disease may notice symptoms like bleeding gums, halitosis, receding gum line, shifting teeth, and red or swollen gums. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, it is important to contact our Chevy Chase dental office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Banks for the periodontal therapy services you need.
  • Slow Healing: Patients with diabetes may have a more difficult time healing. This can be a serious problem for patients who may require dental surgery or have developed an infection. Working closely with a trusted physician to monitor your blood sugar levels can help keep you diabetes stable.
  • Thrush and Other Infections: Thrush is a fungus that affects your mouth and throat. Thrush may present white patches in the mouth, soreness, bad breath, red spots, and white tongue. If you are noticing signs of thrush, it’s important that your visit an experienced dentist.

Schedule An Appointment in Chevy Chase, MD

Since patients with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing serious dental problems, it is important that they visit our Chevy Chase dental office regularly. Dr. Banks offers comprehensive exams during each visit to ensure patients haven’t devloped a complex dental problem. If you are exhibiting signs of a complex dental problem, Dr. Banks offers a range of general, restorative, and cosmetic dental services to restore the health of your smile. If you would like to explore your treatment options, you can schedule an appointment at Capital Cosmetic Dentistry of Chevy Chase.

Location

2 Wisconsin Circle
Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Request Appointment

new patients 301.654.5878

current patients 301.654.5878 or Text Us

Hours

Monday
By Appointment Only
9:00am-4:00pm
Tuesday
8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday
8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday
9:00am – 4:00pm
Friday
8:00am -4:00pm
Saturday
By Appointment Only