Diabetes is a condition that affects so many. If you don’t have it, you may know someone that does. It’s a disease that affects over 400 million adults worldwide, with the projection of 642 million by 2040. Unfortunately, these frightening statistics only account for the diagnosed, which could account for many more. This is a serious issue – so much so, in 1991, the International Diabetes Federation and World Health Organization created World Diabetes Day on November 14th to raise awareness of this terrible disease affecting so many of us.
I know that you’re thinking – what does diabetes have to do with my smile? But there is actually a direct link between diabetes and dental health, and it revolves mainly around sugar.
We all know that sugar isn’t good for us. Well, an overindulgence of sugar isn’t good for us. It affects our blood sugar levels, something that needs to be controlled when diabetic. But it also causes cavities, which is why we go through our dental hygiene routine twice a day. If we allow the sugar to remain on our teeth, the bacteria will feed on it while wreaking havoc on our teeth. On top of that, if left untreated, high glucose levels can cause gum disease.
Do you see? It’s like a cycle – you have too much sugar in our system, we cause our blood sugar levels to go out of whack. If our levels are out of whack, it can cause gum disease and cavities. Not only that, but immune systems can become affected by not managing your diabetes. So, if you need dental surgery, it may even take longer to heal. It’s important to take care of yourself and your diabetes.
For more information about diabetes and your dental health, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.
Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.