According to our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut, diabetes and oral health have a closer connection than most people realize. Recent research shows that the relationship between these two goes both ways. This means that diabetes can affect your gums, and gum health can affect your blood sugar levels.
If you’re managing diabetes, understanding this connection can help you take better care of your whole body, starting with your mouth. So, schedule an appointment with our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut, to get a healthier smile for a healthier you. Call Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., at (203) 335-1011 for scheduling.
How Diabetes Affects Your Gums
If you have diabetes, high blood sugar levels can make it harder for your body to fight infections. This includes infections in your gums, like gum disease.
For people with diabetes, inflammation caused by gum disease can become more severe and harder to control, leading to a condition called periodontitis. This condition is a serious form of gum disease that destroys the tissues and bones around your teeth, which can eventually cause tooth loss.
Studies show that people with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gum disease. And, unfortunately, once gum disease sets in, it can become even harder to manage your blood sugar levels.
Our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut says this creates a “loop” where diabetes worsens gum disease, and gum disease makes diabetes harder to control.
How Gum Health Affects Blood Sugar
Surprisingly, gum health doesn’t just affect the mouth – it can impact overall health, too. When gum disease is present, it causes inflammation that can spread throughout the body. This can make it more difficult for your body to stabilize blood sugar levels.
In fact, researchers have found that treating gum disease can help some people improve their blood sugar control.
Our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut, says to think of it this way: when your gums are healthy, your body has fewer infections and less inflammation to fight off. This helps your immune system focus on other important jobs, like balancing your blood sugar.
Practical Tips for Managing Both Diabetes and Gum Health
Here are a few tips from our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut, to keep both your gums and blood sugar levels in good shape:
Brush and Floss Daily
Brushing two times a day with remineralizing toothpaste and flossing between teeth daily helps prevent plaque from building up on teeth and gums. This significantly diminishes the risk of developing gum disease.
See Our Dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut, Regularly
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are important, especially if you have diabetes. Our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut, can catch early signs of gum disease and help you keep your mouth healthy.
Control Blood Sugar
Keep your blood sugar levels in check by following your doctor’s advice on diet, medication, and exercise. The better you manage blood sugar, the healthier your gums will be.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking can increase the risk of periodontitis and make it harder to manage diabetes. If you smoke, consider talking to your doctor about quitting.
Watch for Signs of Gum Disease
If you notice swollen, bleeding gums or persistent bad breath, immediately make an appointment with our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut. These could be signs of gum disease that need attention.
Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body with Gary Horblitt, D.D.S.
Stay on top of your health by prioritizing your dental care with Gary Horblitt, D.D.S. Schedule an appointment with our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut, online or at (203) 335-1011 now!
