HR News - Diabetes and Oral Health

More than 29 million people in the United States have diabetes. In managing diabetes, it’s important to pay attention to diet, physical activity, medications, blood sugar, and oral health.  Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to oral health problems such as gum disease. Untreated gum disease can contribute to the progression of diabetes.

Diabetes decreases the body’s ability to fight and resist infection; therefore, it can cause gum disease to be more severe.  If untreated, gum disease (called gingivitis in its early stage) can progress into a serious infection called periodontitis. As the disease worsens, it can destroy the gum tissues and bone that hold the teeth in place, eventually causing tooth loss. Periodontitis may impact the body’s ability to control blood glucose (sugar) levels, thus making diabetes more difficult to control.

Therefore, it’s particularly important for diabetics to include good oral care as part of their diabetes management.  If you have diabetes, below are some tips for preventing or managing gum disease:

- Keep your mouth, teeth and gums clean and healthy. Brush and floss every day and visit the dentist regularly. Those with diabetes may need more frequent cleanings and exams.

- Make sure to follow your physician’s guidelines for managing diabetes to control your blood sugar levels as best as possible.Your dentist and physician may need to connect to provide you with the best overall care.

• 
  - Avoid sugary snacks and beverages.
  
  To learn more about the connection between oral health and chronic medical conditions, please visit United Concordia’s Dental Health Center.