If you have diabetes, your oral health matters more than you might think! Your trusted dentist in Vegas wants you to know there’s a strong connection between gum disease and diabetes. So, let’s take a look at how these two conditions are related and what you can do to stay healthy.
Don’t wait for your gums to start giving you problems – take action today. Call (702) 456-0056 to request an exam and cleaning at Miracle Dental with Drs. Ann Pham and Halan Tran in Las Vegas, NV, now!
What Is Gum Disease?
So, what exactly is gum disease? Well, it’s a very common infection of the periodontal tissues (i.e., the gums and bones) that keep teeth secure. It starts when plaque accumulates around your teeth and below the gumline. If left untreated, it can damage your gums and even your jawbone.
Your dentist in Vegas sees this condition often. The early stage is called gingivitis. While your gums may look darker, feel swollen, and bleed easily, this stage of gum disease is reversible if caught early enough. However, if it goes ignored, it progresses to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.
How Diabetes Affects Your Gums
If you have diabetes, your body has a harder time fighting off infections, including infections in your mouth. This makes you more likely to develop gum disease.
Furthermore, evidence suggests that high blood sugar leads to higher levels of glucose in saliva, which feeds bacteria and helps plaque grow faster. To make matters worse, diabetes slows saliva production, further encouraging bacterial growth.
Your dentist in Vegas wants you to know that gum disease can also make it harder to control your blood sugar. It’s a two-way street. The worse your gums get, the harder diabetes becomes to manage.
Signs of Gum Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore
Your dentist in Vegas says it’s important to watch for signs of gum disease. Here are a few red flags:
- Bleeding when conducting oral hygiene
- Puffy or tender gums
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a visit with your dentist in Vegas as soon as possible.
How Your Dentist in Vegas Can Help
Good news: Gum disease is treatable! Your dentist in Vegas can clean below the gumline to remove bacteria and plaque. This is called scaling and root planing. You may also get special rinses or antibiotics to enhance the results of scaling and root planing.
Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings to catch gum disease early if you have diabetes. Your dentist in Vegas is trained to spot even the smallest signs of trouble.
At-Home Tips to Protect Your Gums
Taking care of your teeth at home is just as important. Your dentist in Vegas recommends:
- Flossing before bed every night
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash
- Keeping your blood sugar in check through diet, exercise, and prescribed medications
- Visiting Miracle Dental regularly
Your Smile Deserves Protection – Contact Miracle Dental in Vegas Today!
Diabetes and gum disease may be linked, but you can take control. With daily care and help from your dentist in Vegas, you can protect your smile and your overall health.
Contact your dentist in Vegas here for an appointment, or call (702) 456-0056 to schedule diabetic dental care at Miracle Dental today!
