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How Common Is Periodontal Disease?

Written by drdalesandro on . Posted in Periodontal Disease, Gum Disease, Periodontitis.

Periodontal DiseasePeriodontal disease affects about 20%-50% of the world’s population. And more predominantly among the older population in high-income countries. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease. It affects the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth.

Sadly, this is a very common problem among adolescents and adults alike. Therefore, it must be treated with special care by a periodontist.

This article walks you through the prevalence of periodontal disease among different populations, symptoms, causes, and more.

Prevalence of Periodontal Disease in Adults in the United States

According to a recent CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) study, 47.2 % of U.S. adults have periodontitis, a more advanced form of periodontal disease. This means that 64.7 million Americans have periodontal disease. Half of those above 30 and above have severe periodontal disease. The same study states that prevalence rates increase to 70.1 percent among adults 65 years and older. These findings are based on the data collected as a part of the 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

These findings suggest that more people have periodontal disease than previously thought. And there is a disparity among specific population groups. For example, at 56.4%, the disease is higher among men than women, 38.4%. In addition, the rate is highest among Mexican Americans at 66.7% when compared to other races. The other segments that see a high prevalence of periodontal disease include smokers, people living under the federal poverty level, and less education.

Is Periodontitis a Serious Disease?

Contrary to popular myth, periodontitis in adults is extremely common. It is a severe infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other health complications, including increasing one’s risk for oral cancer.

The bacteria causing periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream affecting other parts of the body. As the disease progresses, it can lead to rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory disease, heart disease, and diabetes.

Diagnosing Gum Disease

Firstly, periodontists rely on visual assessment to check the patient’s oral health. But, this visual method of diagnosing indicates only the presence of the disease. To assess the severity of periodontitis, you need to rely on more advanced diagnostic methods to determine Clinical Attachment Loss (CAL) or Radiographic Bone Loss (RBL). The periodontist then measures the pocket depth with a periodontal probe. A depth of 4mm indicates the presence of periodontal disease. Pockets deeper than 5 mm may indicate severe periodontitis and cannot be cleaned well.

New tests offer genetic and biological information to better determine the appropriate treatment regimen for each patient.

Can You Reverse Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease is broken into four stages:

  • Gingivitis
  • Slight Periodontal Disease
  • Moderate Periodontal Disease
  • Advanced Periodontal Disease (Periodontitis)

Of these, gingivitis is the only stage that can be reversed as the bacteria has not yet had time to attack the bones. However, once a patient reaches stage 2, the infection has already spread to the bones, possibly destroying them. At this stage, the disease is only manageable and not preventable.

Hence, it is vital to catch periodontal diseases early before they move on to peridontitis.

At What Age Do Most People Get Gum Disease?

The chance of periodontal disease increases as you grow older. That is why it is most commonly seen in older adults. For example, clinical attachment loss was significantly higher among adults of ages 60 to 69 years when compared with those aged 40-50 years.

Due to the slow nature of the disease, it can even develop early in life and can go undetected until the patient is older. Unfortunately, by this time, a great deal of damage would have happened.

Causes and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues and bones surrounding the teeth. The early stage is called gingivitis. During this period the gums become red and swollen, a clear sign of bacterial infection. In the more severe cases, the gums pull away from the tooth. In chronic periodontitis i.e, the advanced stage, you may witness a loss of gum tissue and bones, resulting in the teeth falling off. The disease, however, progresses pretty slowly.

Common Causes of Periodontal DiseaseCauses

Periodontal disease is quite common but preventable. The prevalence of periodontitis can be attributed to poor oral health and hygiene. Generally, oral diseases like periodontal disease start with the development of plaque.

  • Sugars and starch in your food, together with the bacteria in your mouth, form a film called plaque.
  • The plaque hardens into tartar under your gumline. It is filled with bacteria and is difficult to move at this point. You need a dental cleaning to get rid of it.
  • Plaque causes gum disease or otherwise called gingivitis which is the inflammation of the gums. Good dental care and treatment can reverse the disease at this stage.
  • Ongoing gum inflammation leads to periodontitis, a form of severe periodontal disease. This causes pockets to form your teeth and gums. These eventually fill with plaque, tartar, and bacteria. If not treated, they can lead to loss of tissue and bone, with your teeth falling off.

Symptoms

The first thing to remember is that healthy gums generally are pink and fit snug around your teeth. So even though the signs of periodontal disease are pretty subtle, it is not entirely without any warning.

The symptoms of periodontal disease include:

  • Gum Inflammation
  • Red and Tender Gums
  • Pus Between Teeth and Gums
  • Spaces Developing Between Teeth
  • Bleeding Gums (Especially While Brushing and Flossing)
  • Halitosis (Chronic Bad Breath)
  • Change in Bite
  • Receding Gum Lines
  • Calculus (Plaque or Tartar Buildup)
  • Pain when Biting or Chewing
  • Loose Teeth or Loss of Teeth
  • Foul Taste in the Mouth
  • Inflammatory Response

Risk Factors

Research shows that gum disease is associated with other systemic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Several factors increase the risk of periodontal diseases. The risk factors can be both modifiable and non-modifiable.

Modifiable Risk Factors

  • Smoking & Tobacco Use – Smoking is of the leading factors for periodontal disease. Furthermore, it also affects oral microbial flora. Smokers are three times more likely to have severe periodontal disease than non-smokers. They also have more chances of tooth loss, alveolar bone loss, and poor outcomes of all forms of treatments. Moreover, nicotine can directly or indirectly cause periodontal tissue breakdown. Smokers with periodontal disease can develop cancerous lesions in the future.
  • Poor Oral Hygiene – Poor dental health aids bacterial deposition and build-up of dental plaque, leading to inflammation in periodontal tissues. Due to this, there is a high prevalence and increased severity of periodontal disease.
  • Hormonal Changes in Females – The increased progesterone during mensuration and ovulation disrupts the repair of collagen fiber and causes the blood vessels to dilate. Similarly, pregnant women also show signs of gingivitis. Finally, estrogen deficiency also reduces bone density leading to bone loss.
  • Diabetes Mellitus – Diabetes mellitus can play a significant role in the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. It is also associated with periodontal ligament destruction leading to loss of teeth.
  • Medications – Medicines like tricyclic antidepressants, atropine, antihistamine, and beta-blockers can reduce saliva flow. This leaves the patient vulnerable to periodontal disease.
  • Stress – Stress reduces the flow of salivary secretions, which leads to increased dental plaque formation. People under stress can have poor oral hygiene. Furthermore, depressed individuals can have a higher cortisol concentration in the gingival crevicular fluid. And hence may respond poorly to treatment.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

Age – Older adults have increases chances of periodontal disease than other age groups.

Heredity – Genetics, along with environmental and demographical determinants, increase the threat of periodontal disease among different racial and ethnic populations.

Can You Stop Periodontitis?

Severe periodontal disease is called Periodontitis. At this point, it starts damaging the bone and is not reversible. However, your periodontist can treat and stop the progression of the disease. Gingivitis and mild cases require non-surgical treatment by a general dentist. However, moderate and severe periodontitis requires a surgical intervention to save as many teeth as possible.

Prevent Periodontal Disease - Stop SmokingWith proper treatment and good oral health practices, periodontitis is manageable.

  • Brush twice a day, for at least 2 minutes every time.
  • Floss once a day.
  • Stop smoking and tobacco use.
  • Maintain a healthy diet.
  • Limit acidic and sugary foods.
  • Regular dental cleanings and exams can help spot the disease early.

Conclusion

According to World Health Organization (WHO), developing countries have a high prevalence of calculus and bleeding gums among adolescents. 35% to 70% of those in developing countries have calculus deposits, while 4% to 34% in the developed nations.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently working with organizations such as the American Academy of Periodontology and the American Dental Association to improve the surveillance of periodontal disease in the adult U.S. population. In addition to that, state and local authorities should implement oral health policies to reduce the burden of disease and improve the quality of life of people.

Furthermore, the American Academy of Periodontology recommends a comprehensive periodontal evaluation every year. Your dentist can perform it at your bi-annual check-up.

One of the best dentists in the Tucson area is Dr. Dalesandro, who has the experience you want to help you with gum disease or any other dental problems; call today for your next appointment.

Can Decayed Teeth Be Fixed?

Written by drdalesandro on . Posted in Cavities.

Can Decayed Teeth Be Fixed?Can decayed teeth be fixed? First let’s discuss tooth decay briefly. Tooth decay is a process that happens over time. Untreated tooth decay will become cavities. There are hundreds of different kinds of bacteria in the mouth, which you can read more about in this article. In terms of treatment, fluoride is the best defense against tooth decay, and because many of us drink bottled water today, we are not getting enough fluoride in our diet.

The number one thing you should remember is that treatment cannot wait if you have tooth decay. It can take some time for tooth decay to deteriorate the teeth and cause further problems, and if left untreated, it starts getting expensive day by day.

The Causes of Tooth Decay

There is a multitude of reasons that you might have tooth decay. Plaque causes tooth decay. The spaces between teeth, areas around former fillings (especially with cracked and chipped fillings), the grooves and cracks in the teeth, and the areas close to the gum line are where plaque builds up. Prevention is almost always the answer to how can a rotten tooth be fixed.

Here is a look at the leading causes of tooth decay:

  • Poor oral hygiene is to blame for most tooth decay. Plaque begins to build up when you do not brush as often as you should.
  • Constant dry mouth can also lead to an increase in tooth decay. Saliva helps to wash away bacteria in the mouth and can prevent plaque.
  • Eating carbohydrates can lead to tooth decay as there are natural bacteria in the mouth that transforms to acid when it mixes with the carbohydrates you eat.
  • There are many medical problems, including exposure to medications and treatments that can lead to tooth decay.
  • Eating and drinking sugary foods, foods that are high in acid, and alcohol can all cause the teeth to accumulate more plaque.
  • Plaque forms on the teeth and builds up over time when not removed, which leads to tooth decay. Regular dental appointments and cleanings will reduce the risks associated with plaque build-up.

Preventing Tooth Decay

Here are the things you need to know to prevent and remedy tooth decay.

  • Fluoride – Fluoride treatments are becoming necessary as many individuals prefer bottled water to tap water.
  • Avoiding Certain Foods and Drinks – Avoiding foods and drinks that are highly acidic, high in carbohydrates, or contain sugars can help reduce the chance of tooth decay.
  • Brushing Regularly – Brushing your teeth is an essential step in preventing tooth decay and plaque build-up. You should brush when you wake up, before going to bed, and after eating or drinking foods with acid or sugar.
  • Regular Dental Exams – Regular dental exams are the best defense against tooth decay.

People Also Ask:

How Much Does It Cost to Fix Decayed Teeth?

Dental treatments are relatively affordable if caught early and answer the question can decayed teeth be fixed. The longer decayed teeth go without treatment, the more advanced the treatment becomes; consequently, the cost dramatically increases.

What Happens If Tooth Decay is Left Untreated?

Tooth decay can be expensive to fix, so many go without treating dental issues unless they become too painful to manage. The best way to know how a decayed tooth can be saved is through proper treatment. This can lead to further damage, including painful tooth abscesses that occur after untreated cavities form infections in teeth.

How Can I Remove Tooth Decay Myself?

Decaying teeth have cavities, which are small holes in the teeth. While there is not a way to fix cavities on your own, there are many ways that you can remove plaque or slow the rate of decay, which include:

  • Oil Pulling – This is merely using coconut oil to swish or pull through your teeth.
  • No Phytic Acid – Studies conducted as long ago as the 1930s have shown a connection between phytic acid (often found in legumes and cereals) and cavities.
  • Skip the Sugar – Skipping sugary drinks and foods is one way to avoid further issues with teeth. After eating sugar, always rinse your mouth with water.
  • Chew Sugar-Free Gum – After meals where brushing your teeth is not convenient, chew sugar-free gum as it helps to remove the bacteria on your teeth after eating.
  • Increase Vitamin D – Eating higher vitamin D foods will make your teeth stronger and reduce the risk of cavities.
  • Try Aloe Vera – Aloe vera naturally fights against the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Today aloe vera tooth gels are available, but the most potent form is straight from the plant.

How Can I Remove Tooth Decay Myself?

Can Decayed Teeth Be Whitened?

It is possible to whiten decayed teeth. Before you can whiten your teeth, you should have all cavities fixed. Whitening with cavities can cause sensitivity or pain. The dentist’s office is the place to go for tooth whitening, and a change that is five to eight shades whiter is possible.

It is essential to know that yes is the answer to: can decayed teeth be fixed. One of the best dentists in the Tucson area is Dr. Dalesandro, who has the experience you want to help you with your dental problems; call today for your next appointment.

How Long Do Braces Stay On?

Written by drdalesandro on . Posted in Cosmetic, Teeth & Gums Problems.

How long do braces stay onWhether large or small, odds are if you have gaps or misalignments in your teeth, you’ll need braces. They are a corrective dental device used to realign and posture your teeth in the proper order.

Braces address several common dental issues.

Several variables go into determining whether you need braces. There’s also a lot involved with deciding which ones are right for you.

People have a misconception that braces are for kids, but that’s not necessarily true. They are for anyone that needs help correcting the shape and outline of their teeth. Underbite, crooked teeth, and overbite are all conditions that they fix.

To learn more about understanding when you need braces and how to choose the correct setup, continue reading.

How long do people typically wear braces?

Before we get into the average length of time people need to wear braces, it’s essential to understand whether you need them in the first place. To determine if you need them, speak with your dentist to get a general checkup.

If a problem arises, your dentist is likely to recommend you to visit an orthodontist. When an orthodontist and an experienced dentist like Dr. Dalesandro together decide that they are the best solution, they’ll help you to determine which ones are right for you.

There are four primary types of braces available, as follows:

  • Metal – these attach to the front of your teeth and are made from premium stainless steel. They can sometimes be uncomfortable and may require dental wax for pain management.
    Clear Ceramic – clear ceramic blend with the color of your teeth. People wear them like standard steel braces. They are less obtrusive but less durable than metal.
  • Invisible – clear and removable aligning trays work great for moderate spacing problems but are not ideal for major realignments.
  • Lingual – these attach to the back of your teeth, making them invisible from sight. They often achieve the same levels of success as conventional (buccal) braces, but they’re not ideal for certain types of alignment problems, such as an overbite.

After getting braces, regular checkups are required for maintenance purposes.

Click here to learn more about the best maintenance practices.

Each of these brace types corrects your teeth at varying speeds. The type you have will play an instrumental role in determining how long you need to wear them. Also, the condition of your teeth’s spacing determines how long you wear them. The average time people wear them is anywhere from 10 months to 3 years or more.

Check this write-up to learn more about the average time people wear braces.

Getting the most out of your braces

When wearing braces, it’s essential to avoid eating certain foods, since certain hard or gummy substances can actually ruin braces after regularly coming into contact with them.

You should avoid using chewing gum, or eating foods like pretzels, raw carrots, taffy, and popcorn. Doing so will help you maintain clean and functional braces that don’t need readjusting.

The cost of braces varies drastically based upon the type you get and how severe your mouth alignment problems are. Your dentist and orthodontist can get you an accurate estimate of how much they will cost.

People Also Ask

Q: How long do braces stay on after teeth are straight?
A: On average, people wear them for 18 months to 3 years in total. But the actual amount of time you’ll need will depend on the condition of your mouth.

Q: Can you leave your braces on too long?
A: Yes, it is possible to leave them on for too long a period. This is avoidable when under the care of a competent dentist, but neglect of this type can result in nerve damage. Always consult with your dentist to ensure you follow the proper wear guidelines and timelines.

Q: Do braces move your teeth every day?
A: Yes, braces do actually make small adjustments to your teeth every day. However, these changes are so minute from day to day that it can take a long time before you see any real results from wearing them.

Contact Dr. Dalesandro today!

To get started on your journey to a beautiful smile, contact Dr. Dalesandro to schedule a consultation. A healthier and happier you begins with a bright smile, and people will notice. Don’t waste another minute and reach out to Dr. Dalesandro today!

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

Written by drdalesandro on . Posted in Restorative, Dental Services, Teeth & Gums Problems.

Does a root canal hurtRoot canals are commonly performed on individuals suffering from severe teeth rot due to cavities or other conditions. By the time you get to the root canal phase, it’s not an optional procedure; it’s mandatory. Root canals are also required when your teeth become infected to where natural tooth decay will occur.

How root canal pain is dealt with

If you’re suffering from any of these conditions and have been told by your dentist that you need a root canal, don’t worry. Root canals have a bad reputation for being very painful; however, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

All root canal procedures are carried out under local anesthetic medication, which numbs your tooth nerves. Many doctors will also apply a numbing gel around your gums so that you can’t even feel the slightest prick during the procedure.

Modern technology has made root canal procedures virtually painless for most people. The stressed individuals about getting a root canal tend to be surprised at how fast the entire process happens.

Does a root canal hurt?

As we stated before, before the procedure beginning, your dentist will apply an anesthetic medication to your mouth. After your mouth has been completely numbed, they will begin by removing the affected tooth or teeth. This is part in which the likelihood of you experiencing pain is the highest.

However, since your mouth is numbed, you likely won’t experience any pain unless your tooth’s condition is dire. Once the affected tooth or teeth have been successfully removed, your dentist will begin capping your teeth using a mold from the one that was just removed.

All of this takes about 30min to an hour max, so you will be in and out of your dentist’s office before realizing it.

Easing the pain of a root canal

After your root canal procedure, you may experience slightly increased sensitivity around the areas most affected. This minute sensation tends only to last a few days. If you experience pain that persists longer than three days, contact your dentist.

Slight inflammation is also another common side effect of root canal procedures. But if your root canal was performed by a professional, swelling should reside within a few days. Pain medications are rarely needed after a root canal procedure unless the situation is severe.

Avoid eating hard or rough textured foods after having your root canal performed, as this could tamper with your results.

People Also Ask

Q: Is the root canal procedure painful?
A: While the common conception about root canals is extremely painful, most people who undergo the procedure report feeling little to no pain.

Q: How long does a root canal take?
A: minor root canal procedures can take anywhere from 30min to 60min to complete. Complex root canals can easily take 90min or more to complete.

Q: How long does the pain last after a root canal?
A: successful root canal procedures result in pain that typically lasts for a few days. If you’re experiencing pain that lasts longer than three days after a root canal, you should contact your dental professional as soon as possible.

Understanding the answer to “Does a root canal hurt?”

After reading this article, your fears of getting a root canal procedure done should be eased. There is no reason to worry about any intense pain associated with the process as long as you go to a reputable dentist. Contact Dr. Dalesandro for your dental needs in Tucson today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I brush my teeth?
What does an abscessed tooth feel like?
What would be considered a dental emergency?
Why are my teeth so bad even though I brush?
How long do dental implants take to heal?
Can gum disease cause cancer?
How much do braces cost?
How Long Can a Cavity Wait to Get Filled?

Can Gum Disease Cause Cancer?

Written by drdalesandro on . Posted in Teeth & Gums Problems.

Gum disease has been proven to increase the risk of developing cancer in elderly women and older individuals.

Gum disease is a very serious condition that affects the mouth and many people don’t take it seriously enough until it’s too late. Gum disease is categorized as a serious infection that can degrade the integrity of your jawbone when not taken care of. Gum disease is a very serious disease however it is also very preventable which is good news if you find yourself dealing with this problem.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is oftentimes caused by a simple lack of basic oral hygiene practices and care. In severe cases where gum disease is left untreated for long periods of time, it can actually lead to tooth loss which is not pleasant at all. If you suspect that you may be dealing with gum disease but don’t know what the exact symptoms of the condition are, continue reading to find out more.

Below, we’re going to provide you with a detailed look at all of the symptoms and signs to look for if you suspect that gum disease is starting to impact your life.

The question is, Can Gum Disease cause cancer?

We all know how important it is to keep up with your oral hygiene for reasons related to keeping your breath fresh and avoiding tooth decay. However, recent studies have been conducted which are beginning to show some interesting links between the health of your mouth and how at-risk you are of developing specific types of cancers.

Gum disease happens in two main stages, the first stage is simply an infection which begins to degrade the quality of your jawbone when left to progress. More severe gum disease is known as periodontal diseases which is a bacteria that targets the bones and soft tissue of your teeth.

Here are some of the most obvious symptoms of gum disease:

  • Bad Breath
  • Sensitive Teeth
  • Shifting Teeth or Wiggly Teeth
  • Swollen Gums

If you notice any of these signs, you need to contact your dentist so that they will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis of exactly what the issue is. As these signs get progressively worse, it’s important for you to pay attention and address them to reduce the odds of the disease becoming more serious.

While the current evidence does point to a potential link between gum disease and specific types of cancers, other factors impact the likelihood of you developing certain cancer types. Your age, gender, pre-existing medical condition, and more will impact how susceptible you are to developing certain types of cancers with gum disease as a precursor.

The primary enzyme that has been found in particular cancer tumors has also been found to be present in the mouth and can act as an “enhancing” agent to gum disease.

Preventative Measures to Cure Gum Disease

You shouldn’t get too discouraged however, thanks to the fact that there are several preventative measures that you can take to reduce your odds of developing gum disease in the first place. Before we get to all of the preventative steps that you can take to cut down on your odds of developing gum disease, let’s take a look at all of the treatment options available for those who have been diagnosed.

Some of the most popular treatment options for gum disease are enzyme suppressants, antibiotic gel, surgery, oral antibiotics, medication, and more. These are all some of the most commonly used solutions for those who suffer from gum disease. To avoid those treatments altogether, you should practice preventative care to reduce your chances of developing gum disease in the first place.

Preventative Measures To Prevent Gum Disease

  • Keep your toothbrushes germ-free
  • Brush your teeth correctly
  • Drink Antioxidant Tea
  • Use a tongue scraper
  • Rinse your mouth out with baking soda and warm water

These are a few simple steps that you can take to help avoid having to deal with gum disease. By performing these simple care routines on a consistent basis, you will be able to maintain a healthy mouth that is free of all sorts of harmful bacteria.

People Also Ask

Can gum disease cause health problems?

Gum disease can cause a wide range of other health problems besides cancer including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more.

Is gum cancer deadly?

Gum cancer has the potential to be deadly depending on how fast it grows and mutates. By identifying it early on you can easily cure it however the longer it goes ignored the worse it will become.

Is gum disease permanent?

When you catch gum disease early on, it can easily be cured however the longer it goes neglected the more difficult it becomes to treat.

Understanding the answer to, “Can gum disease cause cancer?”

Use all of the tips and information that we’ve given you in this article to fight gum disease right where it stands so that you can live a happy and healthy life. For more information on this please contact Dr. Dalesandro today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I brush my teeth?
Does a root canal hurt?
What does an abscessed tooth feel like?
What would be considered a dental emergency?
Why are my teeth so bad even though I brush?
How long do dental implants take to heal?
How much do braces cost?
How Long Can a Cavity Wait to Get Filled?

Oral Health Problems for People with Diabetes

Written by drdalesandro on . Posted in Teeth & Gums Problems.

Oral Health Problems for People with Diabetes include gum decay, teeth rot, periodontal gum disease, and more.

It seems like everyone these days is becoming gurus of fitness and health which may be for the ultimate good. There are several different conditions & ailments that are becoming commonplace due to the onset of unhealthy habits that many people have become comfortable with. One of the most common health issues facing people today is diabetes, the condition directly affects the body’s ability to produce & respond to the hormone insulin.

Aside from impacting your blood sugar metabolism, diabetes can also begin to cause adverse side effects in other parts of your body such as heart, kidneys, nerves, & eyes. Diabetes can also have a huge impact on the health of your teeth primarily the gums. Periodontal gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems amongst individuals who have diabetes and when not treated, it can lead to bad breath in addition to extreme pain that doesn’t go away.

Because of this, it’s important for those who have been diagnosed with diabetes to take care of their oral health. There are several different ways that you can care for your oral hygiene and many of them don’t require a lot of money or time.

Below, we’re going to provide you with a detailed explanation of all the key steps that you need to take to ensure that your oral health remains in optimal condition.

Oral Health Care & Diabetes

Some of the other common oral health problems in diabetics include advanced gum disease, early gum disease, thrush, and dry mouth. To help reduce your odds of developing any of these conditions, there are a few important steps that you need to follow. Continue reading below to find out all of the important steps that you can take to protect your oral health.

How to care for your oral health problems:

  1. Brush your teeth at least twice each day
  2. Regularly visit the dentist
  3. Avoid smoking when at all possible
  4. Manage your diabetes on a regular schedule
  5. Inform your dentist that you have diabetes
  6. Analyze yourself for early signs of gum disease
  7. Make sure you floss your teeth at last once each day

These are some of the most common ways that you can care for your teeth in a way that will help reduce the potential impact that diabetes has on their condition. Diabetes also has a significant impact on the body’s ability to heal, this can impede on your ability to recover from diseases such as periodontal gum disease.

People with diabetes are predisposed to a wide range of different variables which makes them more susceptible to developing certain types of oral health problems. Some of the conditions that make diabetic people more prone to oral health issues are: reducing tissue healing capabilities, gum inflammation, burning mouth, and thrush.

Treatment for oral health problems in diabetics
If you have been diagnosed with any of the oral health problems that we mentioned above, you need to seek the proper treatment. Depending on the specific oral health problem that you’re facing, there are plenty of viable treatment options available. Keep in mind, treatments designed for oral health problems in diabetics have a decreased effectiveness due to the slowing down of the healing process that takes place as a result of the disease.

One of the most effective treatment options for people who suffer from oral health problems due to diabetes is routine cleaning. By cleaning your teeth on a regular basis, you will be able to reduce the direct impact that any gum decay or teeth rot may have on your overall health.

In some instances, medication may be prescribed to help treat your condition however you will need to consult with your dentist before taking any prescription medication. You should always monitor the progression of any oral health problems that you identify so that you can stay on top of using the right method to treat it.

If you’re struggling to find out where to get help with your oral health problems, here are some suggestions:

  • Primary care physician
  • Dentist
  • Diabetic Specialist

All of these individuals will be able to help you get the right information that you need in order to find the solution most effective for the oral problems you’re facing.

Final Thoughts on Oral Health Problems for People with Diabetes

As long as you take the time to read through all of the valuable knowledge, we’ve given you above, you will be able to treat and even prevent oral health problems from arising in your life due to diabetes.

Never take for granted how serious decaying gums or teeth can be to your overall health in the event that you have diabetes coupled on top of it.

People Also Ask

What are 5 oral health diseases?

The five oral health diseases are periodontal diseases, tooth decay, pro-dental trauma, and oral manifestations of HIV.

What diseases or disorders affect the mouth?

Diseases or disorders that affect the mouth are temporomandibular disorder, oral cancer, and diabetes.

Can tooth decay cause other health problems?

Tooth decay can cause other health problems like cavities and even bad breath.

What Are the Main Causes of Dental Problems?

Written by drdalesandro on . Posted in Teeth & Gums Problems, Preventive.

Poor oral hygiene is a main cause of dental problems like tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, alveolar bone loss, and ultimately tooth loss. Why Be Concerned About Your Dental and Oral Health?

Maintaining proper dental and oral hygiene is an essential part of your overall health and well-being. Conversely, poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, alveolar bone loss, and ultimately tooth loss. Compromised oral health, especially for an extended period of time, has even been linked with an increased risk of developing other serious health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. With so much at stake, then, how can you protect yourself against the common pitfalls leading to such serious health issues? This article will help answer that question as we consider the most common causes of serious dental issues and how best to avoid them.

Tooth Decay – The ‘Silent’ Epidemic

The CDC notes dental cavities are the most common chronic disease among youth ages 6 to 19 and NBC reports an alarming 91% of American adults between 20 and 64 are affected by tooth decay. Sadly, too many people never even see it coming until it is nearly too late, even when their teeth had been trying to warn them for months. Tooth decay is the softening and eventual breakdown of your tooth enamel — the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth — and refers to the damage of the structure of the tooth caused by acids. This loss of tooth structure is known as acid erosion and occurs when plaque bacteria break down and digest carbohydrates (sugars) in your mouth. If this loss of minerals from the enamel is left untreated, a cavity (small hole in the tooth) can eventually occur. Without professional treatment, these holes tend to grow larger over time and eventually may end up destroying the entire tooth and surrounding tissue.

Main Causes of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

  • Poor Oral Hygiene:  Not brushing your teeth regularly between meals allows a sticky film of bacteria known as plaque to form and build up on your teeth. When left untreated, irreparable damage may be caused to the enamel, and in time may ultimately lead to the permanent loss of gum tissue, bone, and teeth. That is why it is so important to brush your teeth regularly after every meal and floss at least once a day, in order to thoroughly remove all food particles and lingering sugars.
  • Plaque Formation:  When not removed on a regular basis, the plaque adheres to your teeth and continues to build up and harden over time, often turning into a more resistant substance called tartar. Also known as dental calculus, tartar is a crusty deposit that can trap stains on the teeth and cause discoloration. It creates a strong bond that can only be removed by a dental professional. Since sugar attracts harmful bacteria and lowers your mouth’s pH, it is therefore a major contributing factor to tooth decay and strongly recommended that one limits their intake of sugary snacks and drinks.
  • Plaque Bacteria and Acids:  While most of us don’t like to think about or admit it, bacteria naturally live in our mouth and like to hide in our teeth and gums. When harmful bacteria digest the carbohydrates that linger inside the mouth, acid forms to remove essential minerals from the tooth enamel. This destructive process is called demineralization and leaves the tooth exposed to further damage such as a cavity or dental abscess.
  • Chronic Dry Mouth:  Thankfully our mouth has a natural line of defense for demineralization. Saliva helps to constantly reverse this damage by means of a natural process called mineralization. The minerals in your saliva, such as calcium and phosphate, in addition to fluoride from toothpaste and drinking water, help the enamel repair itself by replacing minerals lost during an “acid attack.” If you are prone to or experience dry mouth frequently, click HERE to read about the various remedies proven to alleviate this condition.
  • Poor Diet:  Frequent snacking on foods high in sugar increases the amount of time your teeth are exposed to the dissolving effects of various acids, which make them more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Because of their high nutritional value and added teeth-cleaning benefits, some of the best foods to snack on are fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as calcium-rich foods to promote strong teeth and bones. Chewing on crunchy vegetables, such as carrots and celery, helps get the salivary juices flowing, which in turn helps wash away plaque-causing bacteria and food particles.
  • Smoking & Tobacco Use: Tobacco use in any form — cigarettes, pipes, and smokeless (chewing) tobacco — raises your risk for gum disease, including severe gum disease called periodontitis. In fact, smokers have twice the risk for gum disease compared with a nonsmoker. Smoking weakens your body’s immune system, thus making it considerably less effective in fighting off infections such as gum and tooth infections. Once you have gum damage, smoking also makes it harder for your gums to heal.
  • Medical Problems:  Some types of cancer treatment that expose the head and neck to radiation can promote a tooth cavity by changing the makeup of the saliva to promote increased bacterial growth.

Now that we’ve thoroughly covered the main causes of dental problems and how best to avoid them, we can better appreciate that maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a very essential, lifelong commitment. The earlier you learn proper oral hygiene habits — such as brushing, flossing, and limiting your sugar intake — the easier it will be to avoid costly dental procedures and long-term health issues in the future. Applying the aforementioned recommendations not only promotes your overall health and well-being, but it also helps improve the quality of your life now and many years to come!