HARRISBURG, Pa., June 24, 2009 /PRNewswire-USNewswire via COMTEX/ -- According
to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 24 million people have diabetes. Of
that number, unfortunately, 5.7 million people are unaware that they have the
disease. Diabetes can affect multiple parts of the body, including the kidneys,
nerves, heart and even the mouth.
Because diabetics are more prone to several oral health problems, including
tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, salivary gland dysfunction and
infection, the Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) reminds diabetic patients
of the importance of maintaining optimal dental health.
It is important to let your dentist know if you suffer from diabetes and if the
disease is under control.
"At each dental visit tell your dentist about the status of your diabetes," said
Dr. Bruce Terry, a PDA member and endodontist from Wayne. "Let the dentist know
your most recent glycosylated hemoglobin (HgA1C) level to determine how well
your diabetes is controlled. A good value should be under 7 percent. Inform your
dentist of any recent hypo or hyperglycemic episodes. Uncontrolled diabetics are
at higher risk for complications from local anesthetics (lidocaine) as well as
complications with oral surgery and even simple tooth cleanings. If you take
insulin, tell your dentist when you normally take insulin and when your last
dose was taken."
Diabetic patients are at greater risk for tooth decay due to the presence of
higher bacteria levels found in saliva when diabetes is not under control. As
diabetes can lower resistance to infection, periodontal disease can develop.
Brushing twice a day and flossing daily will help remove plaque, the sticky film
of bacteria that causes tooth decay and periodontal disease. Using fluoride
toothpaste and an antibacterial mouthrinse is another way to help fight tooth
decay.
It is imperative to visit the dentist at least twice a year for routine checkups
and professional cleanings. The dentist may recommend more frequent checkups and
cleanings for diabetic patients. Though brushing and flossing removes some
plaque, it can't remove it all. If plaque isn't removed, it hardens to form
tartar, which can lead to chronic inflammation and infection in the mouth.
Diabetic patients should contact their dentist immediately if they observe any
of the warning signs of periodontal disease, including, red, swollen or tender
gums or gums that bleed easily or are pulling away from the teeth; chronic bad
breath or a bad taste in the mouth; teeth that are loose or separating; pus
appearing between the teeth and gums when the gums are pressed; or changes in
the alignment of the teeth.
Diabetic patients often suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia), which greatly
increases their risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease. Talk with your
dentist if you are experiencing dry mouth. He or she may recommend a saliva
substitute, as well as fluoride treatment to prevent tooth decay. Chewing
sugarless gum or mints, drinking water or sucking on ice chips may help to ease
the discomfort of dry mouth.
Bacteria, viruses and fungi occur naturally in the mouth. Oral candidiasis, a
fungal infection in the mouth, appears to occur more frequently among people
with diabetes, including those who wear dentures. If a diabetic patient smokes,
has high blood glucose levels or takes antibiotics, he or she is more likely to
have a problem with a fungal infection of the mouth.
About the Pennsylvania Dental Association
Founded in 1868, the Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) is comprised of
approximately 6,000 member dentists. It is a constituency of the American Dental
Association (ADA), the largest and oldest national dental society in the world.
PDA's mission is to improve the public health, promote the art and science of
dentistry and represent the interests of its member dentists and their patients.
PDA is the voice of dentistry in Pennsylvania. For more information on PDA,
visit our website at www.padental.org.
SOURCE Pennsylvania Dental Association
URL: http://www.padental.org
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