November & Diabetes Awareness: The Dental Connection!

Diabetes is a chronic disease that increases the risk for many serious health problems, including severe gum disease. November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and it is a great time to remind all of our patients that the way that you take care of your teeth at home doesn't just affect your oral health, but keeping your mouth healthy is vital to your overall health too.

In the past decade, researchers have found links between gum disease and diabetes.  Not only are people with diabetes more vulnerable to gum disease, but gum disease may also have the potential to affect blood glucose control, as well as contribute to the advancement of diabetes.

Nearly 26 million Americans currently live with the disease, with an additional 79 million in the pre-diabetes stage.  There is some good new, however!  You can protect your gums and teeth from the effects of diabetes by visiting our office for regular exams and cleanings.  Patients who are living with diabetes may require more frequent visits to ensure that their dental health remains in tip-top shape.

If you are in need of an appointment or are in need of more information about the diabetes-dental connection, call our office at 918-455-0123!

God Bless,
DRT