Many Carlsbad people with diabetes have dental problems. However, gum disease/periodontal disease and tooth loss are not unavoidable.
Blood sugar is the complicating factor. Carlsbad diabetics who control their blood sugar have lower rates of dental problems. In fact, many Encinitas dentists have noticed no increased risk of dental disease among diabetics who maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
When blood sugar levels rise, the amount of sugars and starches increase in your mouth. These substances combine with the bacteria naturally present to create enamel-eroding plaque. Untreated plaque creates cavities.
In addition to cavities, Carlsbad dental patients with diabetes need to be vigilant about gum health. Because diabetes can make it harder to control the growth of bacteria, the amount of plaque in your mouth can multiply quicker. Plaque not only causes cavities, it inflames and weakens gum tissue and eventually the bone surrounding teeth.
Untreated gum disease progresses to periodontitis, a more severe infection. Because Carlsbad diabetics have a lower resistance to infection, it can be difficult to reverse periodontitis in people with diabetes. To make matters even worse, the presence of infection can make it harder to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.
Bottom line? 1: Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque build-up. 2: See your Encinitas dentist for twice-yearly cleanings to remove any plaque and tartar that has accumulated under the gumline.
Drs. Stephen and Kimberly Dankworth of La Costa Dental Excellence are accepting new patients in the Carlsbad, San Marcos, Escondido, and Oceanside area. We can help diabetic dental patients keep their smile beautiful. If you are in need of cosmetic dentistry because of diabetes related decay or gum disease, we can restore your beautiful smile with the latest tooth restoration options. Ask us about crowns, dental implants, implant anchored dentures, porcelain veneers, inlays/onlays, and same-day restorations.
La Costa Dental Excellence is located at 7730 Rancho Santa Fe Rd Ste 106 in Carlsbad. Call us at [practicePhoneNumber location=”content”][/practicePhoneNumber] to schedule a consultation. Thanks for visiting the La Costa Dental Excellence Carlsbad dentistry blog!