More Americans are being diagnosed with diabetes every year. A growing health concern, diabetes affects more than just your blood sugar levels. Diabetes can cause complex dental health concerns. Do you know how diabetes can take a toll on your gums and teeth? Take Creekside Dentistry’s Fact or Fiction quiz to test your knowledge on how diabetes affects your oral health.

Fact or Fiction : Diabetes And Your Oral Health, New Orleans

1.Fact or Fiction: Diabetes may stunt saliva production.

2.Fact or Fiction: People with diabetes are less likely to develop periodontal disease.

3.Fact or Fiction: Diabetes patients are more susceptible to fungal infections.

4.Fact or Fiction: Dry mouth is a common side effect of diabetes.

Answers:

1.Fact. Diabetes causes a decrease in saliva production. Staying well hydrated, brushing and flossing and chewing sugar free gum can help stimulate saliva production and keep your gums and teeth healthy.

2.Fiction. Periodontal disease is more common in patients with diabetes. Diabetes makes it more difficult for you body to fight off bacteria. Periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial infection of your gums and bone. Creekside Dentistry can provide periodontal therapy to help treat patients with gum disease. Regular dental cleanings and a proactive at home oral hygiene routine can help to control or even avoid development of advanced periodontal disease. Untreated, gum disease may cause tooth loss and bone deterioration. It is highly encouraged to seek the assistance of your Creekside dentist if you believe you are experiencing signs of periodontal disease.

3.Fact. Thrush is a common fungal infection that patients with diabetes may develop. Thrush shows up as white or red blotches on the tongue or cheeks. Thrush can cause swelling, tenderness or difficulty swallowing. Diabetes makes it more difficult for you body to fight off fungal infections making thrush more prevalent in those with diabetes.

4.Fact. And in fact, dry mouth can be a cause of cavities in adults. Patients who have decreased saliva flow can not regulate bacteria or flush out debris that may cause tooth decay.

Schedule An Appointment

Dentists Dr. Walter Neuhaus and Dr. Karl Neuhaus, encourage all patients to visit the dentist at least twice a year. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, visiting the dentist can help you avoid developing serious dental health concerns. Drs. Neuhaus and Neuhaus,may be able to help you develop a dental care plan to maintain your healthy, functional and beautiful smile.