Research has shown that individuals who suffer from diabetes have an increased risk of gum disease, on top of the other health issues include heart and kidney disease, and stroke. Chances of gum disease increase with diabetes, but more advanced forms of gum disease can actually continue the progression of diabetes.

So how does having diabetes affect your oral health?

This disease can affect your oral health in a number of ways, including:

Causing your mouth to become dry (saliva flow is important for protecting your teeth and gums from bacteria and decay)
You may be more susceptible to infections
You may experience inflamed or bleeding gums

Be sure to practice proper dental hygiene at home to help combat the effects that diabetes has on your oral health. You also want to be sure to visit the dentist for routine cleanings. If you develop gum disease you dentist will be able to help you treat it, improving the blood sugar control.

Do you suffer from diabetes?

If you are one of the millions of people who live with diabetes, be sure to make regular trips to the dentist. If you live in the Olney, MD area and would like to make sure your gums and teeth are healthy, feel free to schedule an appointment today.