Diabetes and Dental

People with diabetes who keep their blood glucose levels in a target range have no more dental problems than the rest of the population. However, those with poorly managed blood glucose levels have a decrease in saliva and an increase in salivary sugar, which leads to dry mouth, ulcers, fungal infections, increased tooth decay, loss of teeth, and difficulty wearing dentures,” says Dr. Carol Alexopoulos, a dentist who practices in Toronto, Ontario.
Insufficient moisture can cause both dry mouth and a burning sensation on your tongue. This lack of moisture can eventually lead to an irritation of the entire lining of the mouth, since normal volumes of saliva actually protect your teeth from cavities and make chewing and speech comfortable. If you wear dentures and develop a feeling of dry mouth, you may find them irritating and more difficult to wear.
In addition, poorly managed blood glucose levels can lead to:

• Severe toothaches due to impaired circulation to your teeth. If you cannot eat solid food because chewing is difficult, try alternatives such as milk, soup, cereals, pudding, or fruit juices to replace your carbohydrate allowance.
• More severe gum disease and at an earlier age.
• Thickening of the small blood vessels of the gingiva (gums) which can lead to infection of the gum and bone tissues.
• Periodontal disease that, in turn, can make it hard to manage blood glucose levels. Because periodontal disease is an infection, bacteria produce toxins that affect the carbohydrate metabolism in individual cells. It is also thought that the host response to periodontal bacteria can increase insulin resistance and, therefore, blood glucose levels.

At Home

Dental health is important for everyone.
The most important part of dental care is to brush and floss your teeth regularly (at least twice a day, better yet after every meal or snack) based on the advice of your dentist. This will help prevent acid attack to your teeth and help avoid plaque formation.
Remember:

1. Food particles left between your teeth will break down and become acidic. Food does not have to be sugary or sweet to cause a cavity.
2. Gum disease can reach an advanced and serious stage before you feel any pain or notice any bleeding during brushing.

At the Dental Office

With very few exceptions, people with diabetes can be treated by dentists the same way as those without diabetes.

• Your teeth may be cleaned by removing all deposits formed in between teeth as well as under the gum line. If this is uncomfortable, ask your dentist for “freezing”. Your dentist should do everything he or she can to eliminate pain during treatment.
• If you take insulin, your dentist should be told. The dental staff can then confirm with you that you took your usual insulin dosage and will ask you to let them know if any signs of insulin reaction occur.
• During a dental appointment, stressed patients release hormones that can affect insulin uptake and blood glucose levels. It is very important that you take insulin/medications at the appropriate time and follow your meal plan to keep your blood glucose levels stable.

If gum surgery or tooth extraction is required, or if implants are to be placed, a very careful follow-up should be planned. This will include special dietary instructions and very close observation of the healing process. You may be asked to measure your blood glucose level more frequently and to test your urine for ketones.
You may also be prescribed antibiotics. If you take any oral diabetes medications, you should speak with your doctor to ensure that there will be no reaction between your diabetes medication and the suggested antibiotic.

Final Thoughts

Floss and brush only the teeth you want to keep!
Regular dental checkups are important. In the fight to control and stop gum disease from advancing quickly, the time between dental visits should not exceed three months.
Periodontists (gum specialists) have discovered that if you wait longer than 90 days between professional cleanings, a worsening of periodontal (gum) disease occurs because the bacteria become more aggressive and more damaging to the gums surrounding your teeth.
If you suspect a problem, call your dental office as soon as possible. Your dentist will always make time for you, especially if there is a problem.
Unlike teeth, dental problems do not go away if ignored.
This article was reviewed by Carol Alexopoulos DDS, a dentist who practices in Toronto, Ontario.

Your Child's First Visit

The Canadian Dental Association recommends the assessment of infants, by a dentist, within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth or by one year of age. The goal is to have your child visit the dentist before there is a problem with his or her teeth. In most cases, a dental exam every six months will let your child's dentist catch small problems early.
Here are 3 reasons to take your child for dental exams:

• You can find out if the cleaning you do at home is working.
• Your dentist can find problems right away and fix them.
• Your child can learn that going to the dentist helps prevent problems.

Your dentist may want to take X-rays. X-rays show decay between the teeth. They will also show if teeth are coming in the way they should. Your child's dentist may also talk to you about fluoride.
Once your child has permanent molars, your dentist may suggest sealing them to protect them from cavities. A sealant is a kind of plastic that is put on the chewing surface of the molars. The plastic seals the tooth and makes it less likely to trap food and germs.
When your child goes for a dental exam, your dentist can tell you if crooked or crowded teeth may cause problems. In many cases, crooked teeth straighten out as the child's jaw grows and the rest of the teeth come in.
If they do not straighten out, your child may have a bite problem (also known as malocclusion). This can cause problems with eating and with teeth cleaning. It can also affect your child's looks and make him or her feel out of place.
Your dentist can suggest ways to treat this, or refer your child to an orthodontist. An orthodontist is a dental specialist with 2 to 3 years of extra university training in this area.
The dentist says my child needs a filling in a baby tooth. Since the tooth is going to fall out, why bother?
Some primary (or baby) teeth will be in your child's mouth until age 12. The tooth that needs to be fixed may be one of those.
Broken teeth or teeth that are infected can hurt your child's health and the way your child feels about him or herself.
To do a filling, the dentist removes the decay and "fills" the hole with metal, plastic or other material. A filling can be a cheap and easy way to fix a problem that could be painful and cost more later because it stops decay from spreading deeper into the tooth.
If a filling is not done and decay spreads, the tooth may need to be pulled out. If this happens, your child may need a space maintainer to hold space for the permanent tooth.
When a baby (or primary) tooth is missing, the teeth on each side may move into the space. They can block the permanent tooth from coming in. To hold the space, your dentist may put a plastic or metal space maintainer on the teeth on each side of the space, to keep the teeth from moving in.

WHAT IS GINGIVITIS

Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums (gingiva). It commonly occurs because of films of bacteria that accumulate on the teeth - plaque; this type is called plaque-induced gingivitis. Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is more serious and can eventually lead to loss of teeth.

A patient with gingivitis will have red and puffy gums, and they will most likely bleed when they brush their teeth. Generally, gingivitis resolves with good oral hygiene - longer and more frequent brushing, as well as flossing. Some people find that using an antiseptic mouthwash, alongside proper tooth brushing and flossing also helps.

In mild cases of gingivitis, patients may not even know they have it, because symptoms are mild. However, the condition should be taken seriously and addressed immediately.

According to Medilexicon's medical dictionary:

Gingivitis is "Inflammation of the gingiva as a response to bacterial plaque on adjacent teeth; characterized by erythema, edema, and fibrous enlargement of the gingiva without resorption of the underlying alveolar bone."

(Top) Severe gingivitis before treatment.
(Bottom) After mechanical debridement of teeth and surrounding gum tissues

There are two main categories of gingival diseases (1999 World Workshop in Clinical Periodontics):

• Dental plaque-induced gingival disease
  Gingivitis caused only by plaque
  Gingivitis caused by systemic factors
  Gingivitis caused by medications
  Gingivitis caused by malnutrition
• Non-plaque induced gingival lesions
  Gingival diseases - caused by a specific bacterium
  Gingival diseases - caused by a specific virus
  Gingival diseases - caused by a specific fungus
  Gingival diseases - caused by genetic factors
  Gum inflammations caused by systemic conditions
  Gum inflammations caused by traumatic lesions
  Gum inflammations caused by reactions to foreign bodies
  Gum inflammations without known causes

What are the signs and symptoms of gingivitis?

A symptom is something the patient feels and describes, such as painful gums, while a sign is something everybody, including the doctor or nurse can see, such as swelling.

In mild cases of gingivitis there may be no discomfort or noticeable symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of gingivitis may include:

• Gums are bright red or purple
• Gums are tender, and sometimes painful to the touch
• Gums bleed easily when brushing teeth or flossing
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Inflammation (swollen gums)
• Receding gums
• Soft gums

What are the causes of gingivitis?

The accumulation of plaque and tartar

The most common cause of gingivitis is the accumulation of bacterial plaque between and around the teeth, which triggers an immune response, which in turn can eventually lead to the destruction of gingival tissue, and eventually further complications, including the loss of teeth.

Dental plaque is a biofilm that accumulates naturally on the teeth. It is usually formed by colonizing bacteria that are trying to stick to the smooth surface of a tooth. Some experts say that they might help protect the mouth from the colonization of harmful microorganisms. However, dental plaque can also cause tooth decay, and periodontal problems such as gingivitis and chronic periodontitis.

When plaque is not removed adequately, it causes an accumulation of calculus (tartar - it has a yellow color) at the base of the teeth, near the gums. Calculus is harder to remove, and can only be removed professionally.

Plaque and tartar eventually irritate the gums.

Gingivitis may also have other causes, including:

• Changes in hormones - which may occur during puberty, menopause, the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. The gingiva may become more sensitive, raising the risk of inflammation.
• Some diseases - such as cancer, diabetes, and HIV are linked to a higher risk of developing gingivitis.
• Drugs - oral health may be affected by some medications, especially if saliva flow is reduced. Dilantin (anticonvulsant), and some anti-angina medications may also cause abnormal growth of gum tissue.
• Smoking - regular smokers more commonly develop gingivitis compared to non-smokers.
• Family history - experts say that people whose parent(s) has/had gingivitis, have a higher risk of developing it themselves.

Diagnosing gingivitis

A dentist or oral hygienist checks for gingivitis symptoms, such as plaque and tartar in the oral cavity.

Checking for signs of periodontitis may also be recommended; this may be done by X-ray or periodontal probing.

What are the treatment options for gingivitis?

If the patient is diagnosed early on, and treatment is prompt and proper, gingivitis can be successfully reversed.

Treatment involves care by a dental professional, and follow-up procedures carried out by the patient at home.

Gingivitis care with a dental professional:

• Plaque and tartar are removed. This is known as scaling. Some patients may find scaling uncomfortable, especially if tartar build-up is extensive, or the gums are very sensitive.
• The dental professional explains to the patient the importance of oral hygiene, and how to effectively brush his/her teeth, as well as flossing
• Periodically following-up on the patient, with further cleaning if necessary
• Fixing teeth so that oral hygiene can be done effectively. Some dental problems, such as crooked teeth, badly fitted crowns or bridges, may make it harder to properly remove plaque and tartar (they may also irritate the gums).

What the patient can do at home:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Bear in mind that in most cases, electric toothbrushes do a better job than we can do on our own
• Floss your teeth at least once a day
• Regularly rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash. Ask your dentist to recommend one.

What are the possible complications from gingivitis?

In the vast majority of cases, if gingivitis is treated and the patient follows the dental health professional's instructions, there are no complications. However, if the condition is left untreated, gum disease can spread and affect tissue, teeth and bones, leading to periodontitis.

Possible complications from gingivitis may include:

• Abscess in the gingiva
• Abscess in the jaw bones
• Infection in the jaw bone or gingiva
• Periodontitis - this is a more serious condition that can lead to loss of teeth
• Recurrent gingivitis
• Trench mouth - ulceration of the gums caused by bacterial infection

Several studies have linked gum diseases, such as periodontitis, to cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack or stroke. Other reports have found an association with lung disease risk.

info found at this site http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/241721.php

DID YOU KNOW?

 

 

 

Acid erosion, also known as dental erosion, is the irreversible loss of tooth structure due to chemical dissolution by acids not of bacterial origin. Dental erosion is the most common chronic disease of children ages 5–17,^[1] although it is only relatively recently that it has been recognised as a dental health problem.^[2] There is generally widespread ignorance of the damaging effects of acid erosion; this is particularly the case with erosion due to fruit juices, because they tend to be seen as healthy.^[3][4] Erosion is found initially in the enamel and, if unchecked, may proceed to the underlying dentin.

Frequently consumed foods and drinks below pH 5.0–5.7 may initiate dental erosion.

The most common cause of erosion is by acidic foods and drinks. In general, foods and drinks with a pH below 5.0–5.7 have been known to trigger dental erosion effects.^[5] Numerous clinical and laboratory reports link erosion to excessive consumption of drinks. Those thought to pose a risk are soft drinks and fruit drinks, fruit juices such as orange juice (which contain citric acid) and carbonated drinks such as colas (in which the carbonic acid is not the cause of erosion, but citric and phosphoric acid). Additionally, wine has been shown to erode teeth, with the pH of wine as low as 3.0–3.8.^[5] Other possible sources of erosive acids are from exposure to chlorinated swimming pool water, and regurgitation of gastric acids.
 

DENTAL CARE AND PREGNANCY

It's important for you to take good care of your teeth and gums while pregnant. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing gum disease which, in turn, can affect the health of your developing baby.
Below are some tips to help you maintain good oral health before, during, and after pregnancy.

Before You Get Pregnant

Try to make a dental appointment before getting pregnant. That way, your teeth can be professionally cleaned, gum tissue can be carefully examined, and any oral health problems can be treated in advance of your pregnancy.

Dental Care While Pregnant

• Tell your dentist (and doctor) if you are pregnant. As a precautionary measure, dental treatments during the first trimester and second half of the third trimester should be avoided as much as possible. These are critical times in the baby's growth and development and it's simply wise to avoid exposing the mother to procedures that could in any way influence the baby's growth and development. However, routine dental care can be received during the second trimester. All elective dental procedures should be postponed until after the delivery.
• Tell your dentist the names and dosages of all drugs you are taking – including medications and prenatal vitamins prescribed by your doctor – as well as any specific medical advice your doctor has given you. Your dentist may need to alter your dental treatment plan based on this information. Certain drugs -- such as tetracycline -- can affect the development of your child's teeth and should not be given during pregnancy.
• Avoid dental X-rays during pregnancy. If X-rays are essential (such as in a dental emergency), your dentist will use extreme caution to safeguard you and your baby. Advances in technology have made X-rays much safer today than in past decades.
• Don't skip your dental checkup appointment simply because you are pregnant. Now more than any other time, regular periodontal (gum) exams are very important because pregnancy causes hormonal changes that put you at increased risk for periodontal disease and for tender gums that bleed easily – a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. Pay particular attention to any changes in your gums during pregnancy. If tenderness, bleeding or gum swelling occurs at any time during your pregnancy, talk with your dentist or periodontist as soon as possible.
• Follow good oral hygiene practices to prevent and/or reduce oral health problems.

Info found from this website: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-care-pregnancy

DID YOU KNOW?

 

 

 

Braces aren't only to fix crooked teeth, braces also fix a variety of dental issues. Having teeth that aren't straight or not biting properly can cause many issues such as.

 

• Higher chances of developing cavities
• If the bite is off teeth can become warn down a lot faster 
• More plaque and tarter build up

• If teeth are crowded it can be harder to floss   

Soda Drinkers More Prone to Cavities

Soda Drinkers More Prone to Cavities

Most people are aware that sweetened soda is bad for the teeth. Dentists can usually spot a soda drinker because they are often prone to cavities and white spots on their teeth known as decalcifications, which are actually the start of new cavities. A cavity is an infection caused by a combination of carbohydrate-containing foods or beverages and bacteria that live in our mouths. Sweetened soda contains a high amount of sugar, a carbohydrate that can promote cavities. Soda may be even more damaging to the teeth than other sugar-containing beverages because it is acidic as well.

Before we eat, the pH in our mouth is about 6.2 to 7.0, which is slightly more acidic than water. When the bacteria in our mouths are exposed to sugar, they metabolize it and produce acid. This exposure to acid causes the pH on the tooth surface to drop. As sugary foods such as candy, sugar-frosted breakfast cereals, ice cream, soda and other carbohydrates are eaten, the pH drops. At a pH of 5.2 to 5.5 or below, the acid begins to dissolve the hard enamel that forms the outer coating of our teeth. Every exposure to these foods allows an acid attack on the teeth for about 20 minutes! As the cavity progresses, it encroaches on the nerve and blood supply of the tooth resulting in a painful toothache!

A study examined the effect of several types of sweetened soda and mineral water on the teeth. Teeth exposed to cola, orange and lime soda had significantly more decalcification than those exposed to mineral water. Of all of the sodas tested, cola caused the most decalcification. Sweetened soda seems to damage teeth in two ways. The soda has a low pH and makes the mouth acidic, and the sugar content promotes tooth decay when it comes into contact with bacteria in the mouth.

The easiest way to prevent cavities is by brushing your teeth at least three times a day, especially after eating or drinking and before bed. Flossing at least once a day is important to remove bacteria-laden plaque between your teeth. Reducing the amount and frequency of eating sugary foods and beverages can decrease the risk of forming cavities. If you have to have sweetened soda, it is better to drink it at one sitting than sip it throughout the day. Better yet, drink it through a straw in one sitting, to bypass the teeth altogether. Getting to the dentist at least twice a year is essential for examinations and professional cleanings.




Good Nutrition Benefits Oral Health

At any age, a complete oral health home program includes sound nutritional habits. Many of the foods that help your body build strong muscles and bones also help build strong, healthy teeth and gums.

Dairy products provide calcium and vitamin D for strengthening teeth and bones. Breads and cereals supply B vitamins for growth and iron for healthy blood, which in turn contributes to healthy gum tissue. Fruits and vegetables containing vitamin C, among other important vitamins, are essential to maintaining healthy gums.

Lean meat, fish, poultry and beans provide iron and protein for overall good health, and magnesium and zinc for teeth and bones.

If you are among the million Americans who smoke, your dental hygienist will educate you about the hazards of tobacco and work with you to establish a smoking cessation program.