National Diabetes Awareness Month

Diabetes poses particular challenges to people with gum disease. At Bridge Smiles Dental Group, we want our patients to do their best to maintain their oral hygiene, but we understand that there are complicating factors. Since November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, we thought it would be a good time to educate people about the oral health-blood sugar connection.

Gingivitis refers to inflammation of the gum tissue. Inflammation is a natural immune system response that isolates diseased material from the rest of the body, but chronic swelling can damage tissues, too, and ultimately inhibit the immune response. One of the results of uncontrolled blood sugar is increased inflammation. People with diabetes have significantly higher odds of having gum disease than the general population. There is also some evidence that people who develop gum disease may be at higher risk of developing uncontrolled blood sugar.

It is especially important for people with diabetes to maintain regular dental check-ups and to avoid behaviors linked with gingivitis, such as excessive alcohol use. At our examinations, we can clean calculus out of the gum pockets. The good news is that treating gum disease can help to control blood sugar. We’re also happy to teach our patients better oral hygiene techniques.

Drs. Meghadri and Grewal run Bridge Smiles Dental Group at 820 US Hwy 202 North Neshanic Station, NJ, and 15 North Bridge St. Somerville, NJ. To schedule an appointment, visit Bridge Smiles Dental.