Nashville Diabetes Dentist

A 2003 study from the American Hygienist Association revealed that 75% of U.S. Citizens have some type of periodontal gum disease, an infection where excess plaque leads to inflammation of tissue around the teeth; while 50% of Americans get by without regular dental care. To make matters worse, people with periodontal disease have a greater risk for developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes, pneumonia, and unhealthy pregnancies due to the entrance of periodontal bacteria into the bloodstream. These findings shed light on the significant role that dental health plays on our overall health, leading dental and medical professionals to refer to the mouth as a mirror to our systemic health.

Dental conditions such as periodontal diseases are a major risk factor for people with diabetes who make up 18.2 million people in the U.S. Diabetics who easily lose control over their sugar levels are prone to dental health
problems such as dry mouth that occurs when the saliva glands function improperly. A reduction in saliva that helps eliminate bacteria can result in tooth decay. Diabetics also have a slower healing time after developing
dental infection such as gum disease. A significant revelation is that treating periodontal disease can reduce the need for insulin injections. Insulin is produced in the pancreas, and when bacteria enter the bloodstream, a reaction takes place were cells are destroyed in the pancreas. Further, the more severe the periodontal disease, the more life-threatening it is among diabetics as exposed from a study for the National Institute of Diabetes and Kidney disease. When periodontal disease in diabetic patients was left untreated over the years, the death rates ranged from 3.7 out 1,000 deaths where periodontal disease was minor or nonexistent, 19.6 out of 1,000 deaths where it was moderate and 28.4 out of 1,000 deaths where it was severe.

Heart disease and stroke are also strongly associated with periodontal disease. In theory, when bacteria from plaque enter the bloodstream, it accumulates and clogs the arteries leading to heart disease and stroke. The
Journal of Periontology reports that out of 15 patients with heart disease, 9 had periodontal bacteria in their coronary arteries. In addition, periodontal disease increases the risk of respiratory disease when bacteria
enter the lungs. A primary concern is the influence of periodontal disease on the birth of premature babies. This is believed to occur when bacteria affects the immune system by stimulation the release of substances that result in premature dilation and contractions.

Without question, the quality of our overall health lies in our hands in the manner that we care for our teeth. By visiting the dentist every six mothers to one year, you gain more than an attractive smile and long lasting teeth. We are also detecting and reducing your risk for serious overall health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory disease that are linked to dental issues such as periodontal disease.

No Matter What You Have Heard…

Not All Dentists Are The Same

A report published in The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice stated: “The dental profession is SEVERELY LACKING in this (diabetes care) knowledge base at a time when the disease is nearing epidemic proportions.” If you are diabetic, YOU NEED a dentist thoroughly knowledgeable about YOUR special needs.

Together, we can make an important and significant difference for you. You can take responsibility for your health and your life. Take advantage of our FREE EXAM offer. You’ll be glad you did, it will include any x-rays
needed and a thorough dental exam at no charge to you. Call us today at 1800 FIX MY TEETH

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