The effects of gum disease range from unpleasant, like bad breath and bleeding gums, to downright unhealthy, like tooth and bone loss. But it’s an especially big danger to diabetics. Since November is Diabetes Awareness Month, it’s a good time to remind you of the importance of healthy gums. 

As this short video notes, diabetics are up to three times more likely to develop gum disease. An infection in the gums increases your blood sugar, which makes it difficult to manage diabetes. It also makes you more susceptible to heart disease and stroke. 

The best way to prevent gum disease is with good oral hygiene habits, like daily brushing and flossing. You should also visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams. The cleanings enable us to remove disease-causing plaque or tartar from areas of your mouth that are tough to reach at home. An exam allows us to detect gum disease in its earliest stages, so we can treat it before it causes any serious problems. 

Call us today to schedule your next exam at Lennon Dental Center: 804-725-9485 for our Mathews, VA location or 804-776-9484 for Deltaville. You can also: schedule online (Mathews) or schedule online (Deltaville).

If you notice gum tenderness, bleeding gums, or gums that appear bright red instead of pink, call us ASAP. These symptoms may mean you need immediate gum disease treatment.