If you have diabetes, your oral health needs extra special attention. Your dentist at Fairfield can explain how diabetes increases your risk for gum disease and what you can do to protect your smile.
Don’t wait until you have noticeable gum problems to take action. Be proactive – schedule a visit with Gary Horblitt, D.D.S. Our five-star dentist in Fairfield, CT, can help diabetic patients get the specialized care they need. Call (203) 335-1011 for diabetic dental care now!
How Are Diabetes and Gum Disease Connected?
Your dentist at Fairfield will tell you: It all comes down to blood sugar. High blood sugar can weaken your body’s ability to fight infection, especially in your gums. That makes it easier for plaque and bacteria to take over.
Diabetes also slows healing. So, once gum disease begins, it’s harder to stop. That’s why early intervention is a must. Your dentist in Fairfield will check your gums closely if you’re diabetic and offer effective solutions to keep your gums in tip-top shape.
What Is Gum Disease, Anyway?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, starts with an infection known as gingivitis. Your gums get red, swollen, and may bleed. But if untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. That’s when gums pull away from teeth, creating pockets for bacteria.
Your dentist at Fairfield often sees this in patients with poorly controlled diabetes. Left alone, gum disease can cause tooth loss and even bone damage. The good news? It’s preventable.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you notice bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, call your dentist in Fairfield right away. These symptoms might seem minor, but they could point to a serious problem.
Other signs to watch for include:
- Gum swelling
- Receding gums
- Pain when chewing
Your dentist at Fairfield can catch gum disease early, treat it fast, and help protect your overall health.
Diabetes and Inflammation: A Two-Way Street
Did you know gum disease can make diabetes worse? Your dentist in Fairfield explains it this way: Inflammation from gum disease raises blood sugar levels. That takes a toll on the immune system, making it harder to keep infections and blood sugar under control. It’s a vicious cycle.
So, managing your gum health helps manage your diabetes, too. That’s why regular dental visits with Dr. Horblitt matter so much for diabetic patients.
Tips from a Dentist at Fairfield to Keep Gums Healthy
Want to keep gum disease away? Follow these simple tips from Dr. Horblitt:
- Stay on top of blood sugar levels
- Eat a low-sugar diet and take all prescribed medications
- Brush twice daily with enamel-boosting toothpaste and a soft toothbrush
- Floss every day
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash, if recommended
- Visit your dentist at Fairfield twice a year (or more if needed!)
Why Diabetic Patients Need More Frequent Dental Visits
Your dentist in Fairfield might recommend checkups every three to four months instead of twice a year. That’s because diabetics are more prone to infection and inflammation.
During these visits, your dentist at Fairfield will clean your teeth, check for gum disease, and help you stay on track with oral health. It’s a small step with big rewards.
Get Specialized Diabetic Dental Care in Fairfield, CT
Don’t wait until gum disease causes pain or tooth loss. Call your trusted dentist in Fairfield, CT, at (203) 335-1011, or click here to take the first step toward a healthier smile today!
