Did you know that periodontal (gum) disease is the most common dental disease affecting those living with diabetes? Here’s how the disease affects kids teeth, and how parents can help their children manage their oral health while living with diabetes.
Diabetes and Gum Disease
People with diabetes are at higher risk for gum disease because of poor blood sugar management. In fact, gum disease can actually cause a slight rise in blood sugar levels, which makes diabetes more difficult to manage. This makes it imperative that children living with diabetes pay attention to their oral health to best avoid cavities and gum disease.
Oral Symptoms of Untreated Diabetes
If diabetes is left untreated or mismanaged, then it can lead to a world of painful oral symptoms. If your child experiences any of the following symptoms, then schedule an appointment with our office right away.
Children with untreated diabetes may experience:
- Less saliva, leading to dry mouth, and a higher chance of contracting cavities.
- Gums may become inflamed and bleed often.
- Oral infections may occur more frequently.
- Oral wounds take longer to heal.
- Teeth may erupt at an early age.
- Receding gum line.
Kids with Diabetes Need to Care for Their Teeth
The best way to avoid painful oral symptoms associated with diabetes is by practicing proper oral health. Be sure your child brushes twice per day for two minutes at a time, and flosses once per day. Also, make sure that they stay hydrated and drink an adequate amount of water. This will help keep their saliva levels high and fight plaque buildup and dry mouth.
How a Pediatric Dentist can Help
Research has shown that treating gum disease can help those with diabetes manage the disease by improving their blood-sugar control. A pediatric dentist will be able to help your child fight gum disease and provide a treatment plan that helps your child manage their oral health.
Schedule a Visit with Our Office
29 million Americans live with diabetes today, and 1.7 million new cases are diagnosed every year. Additionally, 8.1 million people are living with undiagnosed diabetes. If you think your child may have diabetes, then schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor to receive an accurate diagnosis.
If your child is living with diabetes and struggles to manage their oral health, then visit our office. We specialize in care for children, and will provide you with a treatment plan that can help them better care for their oral health.
