The Relation Between Diabetes and your Oral Health

 

In the United States, Diabetes affects 29.1 people, or 9.3% of the population. Diabetes is well known for affecting many areas of the body, including the kidneys and heart. However, did you know that Diabetes is also linked to oral health problems?

People suffering from Diabetes are at an increased risk of developing periodontitis, an infection affecting the health of your gums and bones in the mouth. What is the link, you might ask? One of the key factors in this correlation is blood sugar levels. When diabetes becomes improperly managed, white blood cells become weakened, and your body becomes less able to combat bacterial infections that occur in the oral cavity. This may result in symptoms such as bleeding gums, pain, and sensitivity. Diabetes and bleeding gums may increase your chances of premature death by 400-700%!

Here at River Dental, we’re just a phone call away if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms. We’ll walk you through your specific treatment plan and discuss options to help you maintain your oral and overall health. Give us a call or send us a text if you have any questions, we’d love to help!