Diabetes is a disease that affects the body’s ability to process sugar. It can affect your whole body and even your teeth. If you are undergoing orthodontic intervention, it is important to understand how the treatment and disease affect each other.
How does diabetes affect your oral health and orthodontic treatment?
When diabetes is left untreated, it can make your mouth feel dry, cause inflamed gums that may also bleed, increase your risk of gum disease, tooth decay, cavities and it even increases your susceptibility to infections inside of your mouth. All the bacteria that live in your mouth can lead to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease results from a buildup of plaque created when you have poor flossing and brushing habits. If diabetes is not monitored, it can cause many complications to your oral health and treatment.
How will Dr. Griffin choose your treatment?
It is important for you, as a patient, to keep Dr. Griffin informed if you have diabetes so he can assess the situation and choose the appropriate treatment. During your in-office treatment, Dr. Griffin will check your teeth by applying light force to determine whether they are compromised. If need be, he will also use antibiotic prophylaxis to help prevent infections. Dr. Griffin and staff will always provide a thorough evaluation of your teeth and decide whether your treatment should be altered or paused indefinitely because of diabetes.
What can you do to help your teeth as a diabetic?
Just like anyone who does not have diabetes, it is important to brush your teeth twice a day and make flossing part of your regimen. Flossing is a way to remove as much plaque between your teeth as you can. You should also try to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle to control your diabetes. Another thing you can do is if you are undergoing orthodontic intervention is to make sure you remind Dr. Griffin about your disease so he can offer the best treatment.
Diabetes is not an easy disease to deal with but keeping up with it will allow you to continue your dental treatment and achieve that smile you have been wanting.