Tooth Loss Linked to Diabetes
|December 17, 2015
Tooth Loss Linked to Diabetes? You bet. Recent studies indicate that Tooth Loss Linked to Diabetes is more common than you think.
People with diabetes are already at a disadvantage when it comes to health risks. Along with daily control of the disease through proper eating, monitoring, and medication, those with diabetes risk poor blood flow, foot and other limb problems, and vision loss. However, now there is a new report of an additional medical complication: tooth loss.
Here is what your La Jolla dentist found out about the latest information on diabetes, tooth loss, and dental implants.
Newest Findings Tooth Loss Linked to Diabetes
Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that as of 2012, nearly 30 million American adults aged 20 years of age or older have diabetes. Additionally, research suggests there is a “bidirectional relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease.”
Specifically, periodontitis or gum disease is a common complication associated with diabetes. However, diabetes also increases a person’s odds of having poor dental health including gum disease. The result could lead to tooth loss. Therefore, the American Diabetes Association recommends that doctors refer their diabetic patients to a dentist.
Warning Signs of Diabetes
According to the American Dental Association, diabetes can lead to several types of dental health issues beyond gum disease. These include dry mouth, change in taste, infections, and slow healing.
Here’s what you may experience:
- Less saliva, making your mouth feel dry
- Increased risk of cavities, because saliva protects your teeth
- Inflamed and bleeding gums, due to gum disease
- Increased risk of gum disease and problems tasting food, because of poor blood sugar control
- Delayed healing and susceptibility to mouth infections
If you have any of these issues, it’s important that your speak with your doctor or you San Diego dentist immediately.
Diabetes and Tooth Loss Not Foregone Conclusion
Just because you have diabetes, it doesn’t mean you will lose all your teeth. Having a great relationship with your doctor can help control your diabetes. Having a great relationship with your La Jolla dentist can help you care for your teeth and gums in order to combat dental issues including tooth loss.
A 2012 post in The Journal of Dental Implants suggested that for 34 diabetic patients treated with 127 dental implants, there was a 94.3 percent success rate. However, it’s important to note that even though these patients had diabetes, it was “medically under control.
Dental patients with diabetes who thought they couldn’t consider dental implants as an option for tooth loss should speak with their San Diego dentist first. Don’t let your illness destroy your chances for successful dental implants and a beautiful new smile.
If you would like more information regarding Tooth Loss Linked to Diabetes contact your dentist in San Diego today.