How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?

South Carolina ranks seventh-highest in the nation in the percentage of adults with diabetes. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to a number of medical problems such as blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, dental problems, and much more. Additionally, diabetes is the seventh-highest cause of death in South Carolina, behind Alzheimer’s, stroke, accidents, chronic lower respiratory disease, cancer, and heart disease, according to the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

Wood Creek Dental understands the oral health issues associated with diabetes. We offer a wide range of general dentistry services to treat a variety of oral issues, from gum disease to tooth replacement. We are dedicated to providing the best dental care possible to help you achieve a healthy, strong, and beautiful smile.

The Link Between Diabetes and Oral Health

The correlation between diabetes and dental health is high blood sugar. Oral health issues are more likely to develop when blood sugar is inadequately controlled. Not only does controlling blood sugar levels reduce the risk of diabetes-related eye, heart, and nerve issues, it can help to prevent the development of oral health problems.

The most common dental health issues that affect people with diabetes include

If you have diabetes and smoke, you are 20 times more likely to develop gum disease and thrush, a fungal infection of the tongue and mouth. Smoking may also impair wound healing in the gums, as it inhibits blood flow to this tissue area.

Schedule Your Oral Health Exam at Wood Creek Dental

If you have diabetes, you face a higher risk of oral health problems. It is important to establish an ongoing relationship with a dental practice you trust. For more than four decades, Wood Creek Dental has helped individuals and families throughout our community. We’ve built long-lasting patient relationships based on honesty, compassion, and exceptional quality of care.

Wood Creek Dental serves patients of all ages in Greenville and Landrum, South Carolina, as well as the surrounding areas of the Upstate. Call our Greenville office at 864-288-5300 or our Landrum office at 864-457-3425 today to schedule your exam and consultation.