Fight Diabetes-Related Dry Mouth and Periodontal Disease in Carpentersville

Oral health and diabetes are correlated just like many other systemic diseases. In fact, the latest clinical research shows that poor oral health can be a risk for diabetes. Additionally, a serious case of gum disease can affect blood glucose control. This is how dentistry and diabetes are associated with one another.

For diabetics, it’s important to understand some common oral symptoms, such as: dry mouth, gum disease, periodontitis, thrush or fungal infections. Dr. Holevas understands the oral systemic link of diabetes and uses his extensive knowledge to help you manage the oral complications that arise from this disease. Visit our office in Carpentersville to assure your diabetes doesn’t affect your oral health.

Listed below is information on the symptoms that are associated with diabetes:

Dry Mouth

A common symptom that diabetics have recognized is having a dry mouth. The biggest risk of dry mouth is an increased number of cavities. Saliva is an important factor in oral health because it washes over the teeth and neutralizes the pH levels in your mouth. If there isn’t enough saliva, sugars will remain on the teeth and the pH often becomes acidic. When this happens, decay-causing bacteria thrive and develop cavities in the teeth.

Periodontal Disease

If you’re diabetic it’s important to monitor your mouth routinely. Individuals who have diabetes are more susceptible to periodontal disease than individuals who don’t because diabetes weakens the immune system and slows down the healing response. This is why diabetics are more likely to lose their teeth and are at higher risk for periodontal disease.

Research is also showing another alarming thing about oral health and diabetes. Because periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease, it makes it more difficult for diabetics to control their blood sugar, because chronic inflammation elevates blood sugar levels.

Gum disease is another thing to watch out for. Gum disease can give you halitosis, cause your gum lines recede and you can develop infected pus pockets between your teeth and gums. Dr. Holevas and his staff of experts are able to treat gum disease. To combat gum disease, William J. Holevas D.D.S., LTD encourages bi-annual visits for routine examinations and cleanings so your oral health is maintained for life.

Fight Diabetes with Dentistry at William J. Holevas D.D.S. LTD in Carpentersville

Fighting diabetes is not impossible. Diabetics who keep their diabetes under control have a greater chance of fighting infections and maintaining good oral health. Remember, diabetes and oral health go hand-in-hand. Good practices like brushing, flossing, and other different aids such as oral irrigators help keep gum tissues healthy. If you’re a diabetic in Carpentersville needing routine oral care, we invite you to come visit our office.