What do I need to tell my Houston dentist about my diabetes?

· Discuss any changes or new developments in your medical history
· Let your Houston dentist know if the disease is under control or not.
· List all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking

How can diabetes affect my oral health?

· It can cause tooth decay and periodontal disease.
· It can cause salivary gland dysfunction.
· It can cause fungal infections.
· It can trigger inflammatory skin diseases like lichen planus and lichenoid reactions
· It can complicate infection and delay healing.
· It can impair taste buds.

Does diabetes cause periodontal disease?
Diabetes weakens the immune system, so gum tissue is likely to be affected. Periodontal disease is often linked to the control of diabetes. You may have periodontal disease and not have all of the warning signs. If you notice any of the warning signs of gum disease, see your dentist immediately.

Because diabetes lowers resistance and a prolongs, the longer healing process, periodontal disease often develops among persons with diabetes. It also tends to be more severe.

How can I fight this?
Stay on top of your blood sugar levels. A well-balanced diet is also necessary that will meet your nutritional needs. Practice good oral care at home, and see your Houston dentist on a regular basis. In fact, if you are a diabetic either Type I or Type II, you need to see the dentist more often because of the many complications to oral health you potentially face.

What do I do about the dry mouth I often get?
Chewing sugarless gum will help. If you do not like gum use sugarless mints. You can also sip on water or use melting ice chips. DO NOT chew on ice. Also, restrict your use of caffeine and alcohol. Nothing good comes from smoking so we do not even need to elaborate on that point.

What other some other oral conditions that can be associated with diabetes?
Oral candidiasis, which is a fungal infection in the mouth, seems to be more prevalent among diabetics, including those who wear dentures. Your Houston dentist may prescribe antifungal medications to treat this condition. Consistent and proper oral hygiene is a must.

Another problem is a skin disorder called Lichen planus. It produces lesions in the mouth. More severe strains produce painful ulcers that erode surface tissue. While there is no permanent cure, your Houston dentist may prescribe a topical anesthetic or other medication to reduce and relieve the condition.

What if I need oral surgery?
Infection is a risk for those with diabetes. This can make it more difficult to control blood glucose levels. If you are having extensive oral surgery, your Houston dentist may prescribe antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection. LANAP is a much better procedure for diabetics because it involves minimal cutting of tissue, and because the laser is sterilizes tissue as it removes diseased material.

Labels: diabetes, houston dentists, laser periodontal therapy