When you have diabetes, you know that you have to closely watch your blood sugar. However, you might not know that diabetes can affect your entire body, including your teeth and gums. In fact, not only does your oral health affect your diabetes, but diabetes can affect your oral health as well. Here's some more information about diabetes and your oral health.
About Diabetes
Diabetes affects one in 10 Americans, and one in five Americans don't know they have it. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1, which is inherited genetically, and appears in childhood; and Type 2, which adults can get later in life. Diabetes affects the pancreas, which controls the absorption of glucose through insulin production. If your body doesn't make insulin at all or doesn't make enough insulin, it affects your entire body. Luckily, there are treatments for diabetes, that help your body regulate sugar. If your diabetes isn't controlled, you can suffer from liver and kidney issues, as well as have a higher risk for stroke, heart disease, and even blindness.
Oral Health
Diabetes can worsen your oral health. Diabetics have more sugar in their systems than the body can regulate, which adds up to more bacteria in your mouth. The more bacteria you have in your mouth, the more likely you are to suffer from tooth decay and gum disease. In turn, tooth decay and gum disease can make it difficult to regulate your blood sugar. For your overall health, it is safer to regulate your blood sugar, brush and floss twice daily, and visit the dentist every six months.
What if you haven't been diligent with your oral health? It's never too late to start. Why not go ahead and make an appointment to visit a dentist and get your teeth and gums in great shape?
About Us | Orthodontist Kennett Square, PA | Greeley Orthodontics We take the time to review your medical history and conduct an oral examination to get a clear picture of your health. Learn more about us here! Greeley Orthodontics - Connie Greeley, 400 Old Forge Lane Suite 406, Kennett Square, PA 19348; 484-346-6008; greeleyortho.com; 2/12/2025; Page Terms:orthodontist Kennett Square PA;