Diabetics and Gum Disease: What You Need to Know

Diabetics and Gum Disease: What You Need to Know

A cross section of gum diseased teeth

Given that diabetes affects 26 million people in the United States, chances are that you know someone who has the disease, or may be experiencing it yourself. It’s a debilitating illness that affects people’s lives to their core, changing everything from how they eat to how they travel. But few may know that diabetes and your oral health go hand in hand as well.

What Does Gum Disease Do?

One of the top oral health problems that diabetics experience is exposure to gum disease. Gum disease may seem temporary at first, but it can quickly spiral out of control without treatment. Gum disease is when bacteria get underneath the gums and start to fester. It causes the gums to become inflamed and red, and can even progress to bleeding or oozing pus (in extreme cases). If left untreated, the bacterial infection can worsen and cause your teeth to loosen or shift position. As the teeth shift around, the overall balance of bite pressure will change and influence how you eat and speak.
However, these symptoms only occur in extreme cases of neglect. Most healthy patients deter these results simply by brushing and flossing everyday. Our goal as dentists is to catch the disease before it becomes worse, and coach our diabetic patients on better oral health practices.

Diabetes and Gum Disease: Does It Go Both Ways?

For those who may not know, diabetes is an illness that prevents your body from processing sugars properly, which leads to high blood sugar and putting some vital organs at risk. Gum disease is when the gums become infected with bacteria, leading to soreness, bleeding, and gum recession. But is there a correlation between the two? The answer is yes.

Patients with diabetes are actually more susceptible to gum disease. Now, this doesn’t mean that all diabetics will get gum disease, but the risk increases for those who have diabetes. Diabetes can affect the strength of your immune system, making it more difficult to fight bacterial infections in your gums. On the other hand, research has suggested that patients who have gum disease can inadvertently affect their blood glucose, and progress their diabetes.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Diabetic patients already have enough to keep track of, but once you notice these deteriorations in your oral health, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. This way you can get treated as soon as possible.
Here’s some symptoms to watch out for when it comes to gum disease:
  • Red, swollen gums
  • Bad breath
  • Shifting teeth out of position
  • “Long-tooth” appearance; the gums pulling back from the teeth, exposing the roots
If any of these symptoms appear in your mouth, be sure to let us know as soon as possible. We’ll bring you in for an evaluation and set you on the path to treatment.

Is Gum Disease Contagious?

Since gum disease, and the more extreme form of periodontitis, are bacterial infections, it is indeed possible for the bacteria to be passed around. However, this can only be done with direct contact.
For example, kissing is often a concern for our gum disease patients. The answer is that yes, gum disease bacteria can be transferred through kissing a loved one, spouse, or even your dog. However, as long as the person is vigilant with their oral health regimen, including brushing and flossing everyday, then there is little to no risk of garnering gum disease.

Gum disease can also be passed along by sharing eating utensils, cups, straws, and dental devices (such as retainers or dentures) with people who are infected. If you or a loved one are confirmed to have gum disease, it’s best to not share these things with them, and remember to brush and floss everyday. This is especially true for patients who have diabetes and may be more susceptible to bacterial infection.

How Diabetic Patients Can Fight Oral Disease

In spite of the delicate balance of diet and activity that diabetics have to keep in mind, there are still ways that diabetic patients can keep common oral ailments at bay. Just follow these simple directions, and keep in touch with your dentist to stay on top of your oral health.
Gingivitis
  • Brushing and flossing at least twice a day
  • Attend regular hygiene visits at the dentist
Periodontitis
  • Deep cleaning (also known as scaling and root planing)
  • Antibiotic medicine prescribed by the dentist
  • In extreme cases, gum surgery may be needed to clean infected areas
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
  • Take any medicine or fluoride mouthwash prescribed
  • Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow
  • Hydrate frequently (but don’t over-hydrate)
  • Avoid tobacco products, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages
  • Avoid extremely spicy or salty foods
Thrush
  • Take any prescribed medicines that eradicate the fungus
  • Thoroughly clean dental devices, such as dentures and retainers
  • Soak your dental devices in cleaning solution for part of the day or overnight
Keep in mind that certain symptoms, like dry mouth, could also be side effects of diabetic medication. Ask your doctor about common side effects of your prescriptions and let us know about your health changes when you pay us a visit.

How Often Should You See the Dentist?

The standard rule is every six months, or at least twice a year. These are the times when dentists can check on your progress with any oral health changes. They’ll take x-rays of your smile, evaluate the healthiness of your gums and teeth, and also talk to you about any cosmetic or restorative treatments you’re interested in.
What’s most important is to also keep us informed about your medical health. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or are pre-diabetic, we ask that you let us know about these changes. Each patient’s medical history is held in the strictest confidence, and will only be between you and our dental care providers.

Contact Us About Oral Health Changes in Nashville, TN

Are you diabetic or pre-diabetic? If so, we want to help make sure that your oral health stays in good shape throughout your treatment. Contact us and schedule a consultation with one of our three premier dentists, and get the information you need to have a better smile, even with your diabetic symptoms.
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Two Days Post Bariatric Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Two Days Post Bariatric Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Jackie Graves reviews post-op weight loss surgery in Tijuana, Mexico two days after her procedure.   Video Transcription “My name is Jackie Graves and I am from Claremore, Oklahoma. I had a gastric sleeve procedure done here two days ago. I am feeling good.” Why did you choose Tijuana for your bariatric surgery? “I came […]

TMJ Treatment and Awareness

TMJ Treatment and Awareness

TMJ

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, more than 10 million Americans are affected by TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder. This disorder can cause a variety of problems, ranging from migraines to severe jaw pain. The temporomandibular joint is important for basic human functions such as chewing, biting, and speaking.

The big problem with TMJ disorder is that its symptoms are similar to other health problems. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, TMJ symptoms will continue to get worse. Inflammation of the jaw joint and surrounding muscles won’t just cause discomfort, it can also lead to teeth grinding or clenching.

To protect your smile and quality of life, symptoms of TMJ disorder should be treated as soon as possible. In observance of National TMJ Awareness Month, we at the Dentistry of Nashville shed light on this common disorder.

TMJ Disorder Risk Factors and Symptoms

TMJ disorder is the dysfunction of the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. This is an intricate area of the body comprised of different joints, discs, ligaments, and muscles. There are two joints  located in the front of each ear that connect the lower jaw bone to the upper jaw bone.
Before deciding on the best treatment option, you should identify the possible cause of your TMJ. Common causes include:
  • Trauma (jaw dislocation)
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
  • Arthritis
  • Improper bite
Severe TMJ disorder is a common complaint of women during their childbearing years. Researchers suggest that female sex hormones play a role in the development of TMJ. The TMJ Association reports that the “ratio of women to men increases with the severity of symptoms, approaching nine women for every one man with major limitations in jaw movements and chronic, unrelenting pain.”
Additionally, musicians and singers are highly susceptible to TMJ disorder because of sustained jaw positions and stretching required to perform. Those who habitually chew gum are more likely to develop TMJ issues as well.
Most people associate TMJ with lockjaw but truthfully,this is just one of many symptoms. Some of the other common symptoms of TMJ include:
  • Headaches
  • A clicking or popping sound with jaw movement
  • Pain while opening or closing the mouth
  • Earaches
  • Pressure behind the eyes
  • Sore/Tender jaw muscles
  • A change in the way the top and bottom teeth fit together
  • Jaw feels like it “locks out” for a moment
  • Swelling of the face

Bruxism and TMJ

Approximately 12% of the US population is affected by TMJ disorder at any given time. This equals out to around 35 million people in the United States. Treating these symptoms in a timely manner is imperative because it can have devastating effects on your oral health. TMJ disorder is closely associated with bruxism, which is another common dental health problem that can leave patients susceptible to tooth fractures and decay.

Bruxism can cause TMJ and vice versa; TMJ is known to cause bruxism in many patients.
Bruxism puts an exorbitant amount of pressure on the teeth. While the teeth are designed to withstand daily wear and tear from biting and chewing, chronic grinding or clenching will eventually wear down the protective enamel layer of the tooth.

The tooth enamel protects the inner layers of the tooth, including the dentin and the tooth pulp where the blood vessels and nerves are located. When the enamel is worn down, patients are more susceptible to problems such as tooth decay and tooth sensitivity.
Increased tooth sensitivity occurs as the dentin wears down to the tubules, which are filled with tiny nerve endings. When the nerve endings are exposed to hot, cold, acidic, or sugary foods and beverages, patients will experience pain.
Other oral health consequences associated with TMJ and bruxism include:
  • Damaged fillings or crowns
  • Gum inflammation
  • Dental fractures and chips

Treatment Options For TMJ

There are a variety of ways to treat TMJ or at least manage the symptoms. Some of your options include:
  • Oral splints or mouth guards
  • Pain medication and anti-inflammatories
  • Physical therapy
  • Relaxation techniques to reduce tension in the jaw
  • Surgery for TMJ related to a structural jaw problem

Contact Dentistry of Nashville

Have you experienced damage to your teeth due to TMJ? Don’t wait to seek treatment! We offer a variety of services, including veneers, dental implants, dental crowns or bridges, and cosmetic dental treatment to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
To find out more about our dental services, contact our office today to schedule your appointment!
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Next -- Upper dentures without palate

DO YOU HAVE A LOWER DENTURE THAT JUST DOESN’T WORK?

DO YOU HAVE A LOWER DENTURE THAT JUST DOESN’T WORK?

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Oral Cancer-Fighting Foods to Include In Your Thanksgiving Dinner

Oral Cancer-Fighting Foods to Include In Your Thanksgiving Dinner

thanksgiving-picture 

Thanksgiving Day is right around the corner. For most Americans, this means a fun-filled day spent with family and friends indulging in the season’s favorite foods. At the end of which,  you may find yourself wishing you were wearing loose fitting pants. According to the Calorie Control Council, the average person consumes over 4,500 calories during the Thanksgiving holiday. That’s nearly double the recommended daily calorie intake.

But what does it all mean for your oral health? Many popular holiday foods  can be directly linked to having negative effects on oral health. A steady diet of these same foods often leads to oral cancer. Traditional holiday meals such as grilled red meats, smoked meats, and canned foods are on the top of the list of negative contributors.

Luckily, there is also a variety of healthy, mouth-watering alternatives that can assist in the prevention of oral cancers, all while keeping your taste buds satisfied.  

Take advantage of the list of  healthy foods provided in this article that may assist in the prevention of oral diseases., These foods make a delicious contribution to your Thanksgiving feast.

Foods That Help Prevent Oral Cancer

According to the American Institute of Cancer Research, beans, berries, green tea, soy and tomatoes are ideal healthy goodies that help aid a robust diet while promoting oral health.
  • Berries – Berries are an excellent source of Vitamins C and K. They support a healthy immune system. The powerful antioxidants and other nutrients in these fruits help combat cancer.  Blackberries, in particular, are rich in antioxidants which reduce the process of cell damage.
  • Cruciferous vegetables – According to the National Cancer Institute, vegetables like broccoli, kale and cauliflower are rich in the powerful antioxidant glutathione. These greens are also rich in vitamins C, E, K, and folate . They counteract tumors from forming and stop the migration of tumor cells. A side dish of steamed broccoli or a large plate of seasoned kale would make a terrific healthy meal and an excellent oral cancer preventative to add to your Thanksgiving feast.    
  • Fresh Herbs and Spices – Scientists have found that fresh herbs and spices-have phytochemicals that help prevent cancer.  Turmeric, ginger, ground pepper and rosemary have inherent  medicinal traits that reduce and prevent inflammation.  These species slow the process of damaged cells and may prevent tumors from developing.                                
  • Leafy Green Vegetables Eating leafy greens are instrumental in reducing the risk of oral cancer. These vegetables provide probiotics, vitamin D and omega-3’s, all proven to assist the immune system. Make a Spinach Pomegranate Salad for a leafy green Thanksgiving dish.

6 Foods That Promote Oral Cancer

  1. Alcohol – Alcohol contains acetaldehyde which directly damages the cellular DNA in the human body. Excessively drinking alcohol will increase the effects of damage on the liver while increasing the potential of other cancer-causing chemicals.
  2. Canned tomatoes – Most canned foods contain an industrial chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA), mostly used to harden industrial plastics. But what makes canned tomatoes exceptionally dangerous are the high acidity levels. They allow the BPA to attach directly to the tomato sauce. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) created a large database of companies and their products to show their use of BPA in canned goods. Consider juicing fresh tomatoes as a healthy alternative to purchasing canned tomatoes.
  3. Hydrogenated oil  Hydrogenated oils contains two chemicals that can trigger cancer.  Foods that contain hydrogenated oils include hot dogs, chips, crackers, cookies, doughnuts and french fries.  Healthier alternatives like olive oil, grapeseed oil or coconut oil can reduce the risks of heart disease and oral disease. They taste great, too.
  4. Processed meats – Processed meats have been linked to triggering oral cancer due to their heavy incursion of preservatives to make them look fresh. When grilling processed meats, carcinogens are released that change the molecular structure of the meat. Most of the carcinogens added in the preservatives are known to be the same chemicals that are in cigarettes. Stick to baking or broiling meat this holiday, as these are healthier substitutes that still tastes great.
  5. Sugars – View our previous list of sugary and sugar-free items that you should here.
  6. Bread (White Flour) – Breads contain some cancer-causing chemicals such as potassium bromate, potassium iodate and sometimes both. Potassium bromate helps the bread contain a high rising and a uniform finish, is also very dangerous to human health, and has been proven to trigger cancer when consumed over time. Try substituting white bread for whole grain wheat bread as a healthy Thanksgiving snack.

Contact Our Nashville Office

If you have concerns relating to your oral health, come visit us. Drs. Elan, Vaughan, or Fleming, will analyze your teeth, gums, bite, bone structure and other risk factors for any types of oral diseases. Identifying the key symptoms of oral diseases early is essential to protecting your teeth and gums to maintain a beautiful lasting smile.
From the team at Dentistry of Nashville, have a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

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