At Endres Gateway Dentistry in Cincinnati, we believe that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure (thank you, Benjamin Franklin!). We are very big on prevention – and not only when it comes to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
We are also concerned with how the condition of your mouth impacts your complete physical health and general well-being.
Scientists have known for quite some time that people with diabetes have higher rates of gum disease. Maintaining proper blood glucose levels is the key to minimizing the risk of gum disease and related issues for those affected.
Additional research is exploring whether the reverse is also true – whether poor oral health increases the risk of developing diabetes. A long-term study suggests that it does.
“We found that over two decades of follow-up, individuals who had periodontal disease were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life when compared to individuals without periodontal disease.” -Ryan T. Demmer, PhD, MPH1
Additional trials are exploring how tooth and gum health impacts the ability of diabetics to manage the disease.
“Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to serious gum disease, but serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.”2
If you have diabetes, it is essential that you see a dentist regularly and are committed to daily oral hygiene, proper nutrition, and other important practices. Moreover, your success in controlling your blood glucose levels will improve your oral health and vice-versa.
If you don’t have a dentist and live in the greater Cincinnati area, call Endres Gateway Dentistry. We’ll carry out a thorough examination and ay hygienist will treat your teeth and gums to a professional dental cleaning. Then we will create a helpful plan for improving and maintaining your dental health for life.
1Angelo Milone, “Does periodontal disease cause type 2 diabetes?,” Endocrine Today, November 2008, http://www.healio.com/endocrinology/diabetes/news/print/endocrine-today/%7Bacdccbd7-a2b2-4a9e-ac08-b29b53116908%7D/does-periodontal-disease-cause-type-2-diabetes, accessed August 12, 2015
2“Diabetes and Oral Health Problems,” American Diabetes Association, September 18, 2012, http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/oral-health-and-hygiene/diabetes-and-oral-health.html#sthash.9IlHJB8l.dpuf, accessed August 12, 2015
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