Many of my patients have diabetes, some undiagnosed. My clinical experience and studies have shown that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of periodontal (gum) disease. This can be cyclical because infectious gum disease will have the potential to affect blood sugar and contribute to the diabetic condition. Diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection, so bacteria in the mouth will produce plaque—a sticky deposit on teeth—when left untreated will progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is described as the destruction of the structure that supports the teeth. If left, this condition will cause mobility and loss of teeth.
What can be done is to first establish good insulin control under the guidance of your physician. Then inform your dentist and his registered dental hygienist of your condition. They will place you on the proper dental cleaning regimen and prophylaxis recall. The recall schedule will be analyzed by a dentist and hygienist to eliminate the bacterial toxins that cause dental plaque and subsequently dental disease. Some of my patients are best served on three or four month cleaning recalls. It is important to not let your carrier dictate six month recalls when you may be best served on an alternate schedule.
As a diabetic, please take your medications as directed and eat appropriately, prior to any dental visit. Also, be aware of your blood sugar level and inform your dental provider of any changes in your condition.
So, in conclusion it is important for people with diabetes to visit their dentist and hygienist regularly to improve the status of their oral and general health. In my office, I try to pair one of my five hygienists with patients they are comfortable with, so as to efficiently monitor any changes in their oral condition. This has worked well to improve the overall status of a diabetic’s oral and general health.
As a long time Santa Clarita community participant and activist, I wish you and your family a healthy and happy holiday season.
Dr. Allan Fine and staff are located at 24318 Walnut Street, Suite 2 in Newhall and can be reached at 661-259-7760. Dr. Fine has served the SCV for 35 years. For more information, please visit www.afinedds.com .