3 Tips For Maintaining Good Oral Health As A Diabetic When You Have Had Trouble Regulating Your Blood Glucose Levels
As a diabetic who has often had difficulty managing your disease, as evidenced by many occurrences of high blood sugars, your physician has probably warned you that you are at an increased risk of infections and wounds that are slow to heal. However, it is easy to overlook the fact that your increased risk extends to cavities, bone loss, and even infections within the mouth that don't respond well to antibiotics. Therefore, if you suffer from Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and your current dental situation is not what it should be, you are likely to find the following advice to be quite useful.
#1-Check Your Blood Sugar Levels Often In the Days Leading Up To Your Dental Appointments
It is important to point out that maintaining a healthy blood sugar through diet and medication, if necessary, is essential for all diabetics at a. However, it's of exceptional importance during the last few days before each dental visit, even if you are just going for an exam or cleaning.
That is because one side effect of poorly controlled diabetes include dry mouth, which can make it easier for an infection to occur. You will also be more prone to complications if you need oral surgery and high blood sugar can become even higher after an invasive dental procedure. Therefore, it's best to have adequately controlled blood glucose when you receive dental work and if that is not possible, you might benefit from having the necessary done in a hospital setting, in case severe complications manifest.
#2-Avoid The Use Of Steroids
Another factor to consider is the use of steroids. Although steroids are an inexpensive way to reduce swelling, which might occur after the extractions for dental implants are performed, steroids are known to raise blood sugar levels. Instead, it is a better idea to ask about alternative anti-inflammatory medications, either prescription or over-the-counter, to help with the swelling.
If it is determined that steroids are the most appropriate option, it's best to speak with your primary care physician or endocrinologist to see what you can do to address the temporary issue of higher blood glucose levels.
#3-Treat Gum Disease To Prevent The Damage Associated With Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is what untreated gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, turns into. Since pain and infected gums are known consequences of periodontal disease and damage to the underlying bone is common, you should see your dentist regularly.
Regardless of the severity of your gum disease, having your teeth cleaned regularly is a good idea, as it has been known to have a positive impact on that disease. If it doesn't help, it can often keep the inflammation or infection from becoming worse. If you suspect gum disease, immediately work with your dentist to abolish it quickly in order to maintain your future oral heath.
In conclusion, there is little doubt that being diagnosed with diabetes can result in unique medical and dental challenges, especially if you regularly experience high blood sugar levels. As a result, you should be aware of the tips shared above to address your unique dental needs as a diabetic. Contact a dentist, like Robert J Bauder DMD, for more help.
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