Five Connections Between Diabetes and Dental Health

Dry Mouth

A reduction of saliva because of diabetes can lead to dry mouth. Dental patients with dry mouth are at a higher risk of decay.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a cause of tooth loss. Swollen, bleeding gums, and bone loss are symptoms of gum disease. Those with diabetes are susceptible to periodontitis partially due to elevated sugar levels and bacterial growth.

Infection

The immune system can be weakened by diabetes. Those with diabetes can be more susceptible to oral infections.

Slower Healing Time

Delayed healing time may mean dental patients take longer to recover from treatment. It may also increase the risk of infection.

Blood Sugar Complications

Uncontrolled diabetes may increase the glucose in saliva creating an ideal environment for bacterial biofilm or dental plaque formation. Bacterial plaque is associated with dental decay and gum disease.

What to do!

Regular Dental Check Ups

See your dentist every three months for cleanings and checkups. Brush and floss daily. Keep your dentist informed regarding your diabetes.

Be Aware

Keep an eye out for signs of dental disease such as red swollen gums, bleeding, or tooth

discomfort.

Stay in Charge

Visit your healthcare provider at regular intervals and keep your blood sugar at the levels recommended.

Drink Water

Stay hydrated to keep dry mouth under control.

Do not Smoke

Smoking can exacerbate disease and quitting will improve dental and overall health.

The post Diabetes and the Dentist? 5 Connections and 5 Tips first appeared on Toledo Dentist News.

There are dozens of habits and behaviors which may contribute to mouth cancer development but we’re here to bring awareness to the signs and help encourage preventative care. Cancer of the mouth may develop due to smoking, poor eating habits, and poor oral hygiene, untreated sores or ulcers and more. 

Did you know at Frankel Dentistry during your comprehensive dental exams performed by our doctors, we take the time to look for any signs of cancer. We will work with you every step to ensure we can provide the best care for your needs. 

Any dentist will tell you smoking can damage not just your lungs but mouth and throat. As a preventative care suggestion, putting a stop to all tobacco products can help limit the amount of carcinogens you are exposed to. We also advise you to establish a strong and efficient oral care routine to promote a healthier lifestyle.

If you have any concerns regarding your oral health or dental health needs please call our Toledo or Maumee office to schedule an appointment today.

The post Oral Cancer Awareness Month first appeared on Toledo Dentist News.

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month which includes cancer of the mouth, tongue, tonsil or throat. Risk factors for oral cancer include a long term use of tobacco and alcohol as well as exposure to the HPV-16 virus (human papilloma virus version 16) which is also responsible for a large majority of cervical cancers in women.

The post What is your mouth not telling you? April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month first appeared on Toledo Dentist News.