When it comes to diabetes and oral health, the two might be more related than you think. Did you know that a patient’s blood sugar directly affects their oral health? Periodontal disease and diabetes go hand-in-hand, so if one is out of control, the other likely is as well. This correlation means that diabetic patients having difficulty controlling their condition may also have dental or oral health issues as a result.
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How A1C Levels Affect Dental Health
The A1C test is a blood test for diabetics that measures the level of sugar in their blood. We always make sure to ask patients what their A1C levels are so we can have a general idea of what to expect. Patients with controlled diabetes might not show any signs of their condition, but that’s something we would know ahead of time when we review their health history.
If the A1C is elevated and over 5.5 to 6.5, we might see more bleeding and inflammation in the mouth because they have more blood sugar and overall inflammation within their body. Even though A1C levels influence bleeding and inflammation, it doesn’t affect our ability to complete a cleaning for a patient with diabetes. In fact, getting that bacteria out of a patient’s teeth can be beneficial to their health.
Relationship between Diabetes and Oral Health on Recovery Time
If a diabetic patient has difficulty controlling their condition, it can also affect the recovery time for healing. That’s why if we do an extraction or something that would impact how a patient feels, it’s important to note if they have diabetes. While it can affect recovery time, there are also a number of potential dental health concerns that diabetic patients may experience.
How Uncontrolled Diabetes Impacts Oral Health
- Inflammation/Puffy Gums
- Excessive Bleeding
- Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)
- Burning Sensations
- Delayed Wound Healing
- More Severe Infections
- Higher Risk of Candidiasis
- Parotid Salivary Gland Enlargement
Special Measures We Take for Our Diabetic Patients
If we see a patient with a higher A1C experiencing bleeding and inflammation, we usually give them tips to keep their tissues healthy. Some diabetic patients will need to come in more often than the standard twice-a-year exam and cleaning. However, other patients with controlled diabetes may only need to see us the typical amount. If a patient needs to come in more often to keep their mouth healthy, we will recommend it, but it’s not necessary for all diabetic patients.
At Cedarwood Dentistry, we cultivate dental health through personalized care. We offer a variety of dental services, including family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and emergency care in Midlothian, Virginia. Whether you last visited the dentist six months or six years ago, we can help bring your smile to life. Schedule your dentist appointment today by calling 804-379-9375.