Diabetes and Gum Disease

Gum inflammation is so common that many people think it’s normal to see blood in the sink after they spit. In fact, inflammation is a sign of a problem. There are various things that could cause it, but the most common is a gum infection. At Vista Dental in Medicine Hat, we’re particularly concerned about the impact gum disease has on people with diabetes and we want our patients to know why.

Inflammation prevents pathogens from traveling to other parts of the body and makes cell membranes more permeable to proteins used by white blood cells. Unfortunately, inflammation is also painful and prolonged inflammation can weaken or scar tissues. People with uncontrolled blood sugar have higher rates of inflammation and more difficulty fighting off infections. There is evidence that gum disease causes the body to become worse at glucose regulation, creating a feedback cycle.

Gum disease in diabetic people is treatable, but they need to be especially committed to brushing and flossing. At regular appointments, we can provide deep cleanings to remove plaque from gum pockets before inflammation sets in. When gum disease is treated, blood sugar becomes better regulated. And if their blood sugar is well-regulated, diabetic people are no more at risk for gum disease than anyone else.

Vista Dental is located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 403-548-7077 or visit Vista Dental MH.

 

Sjögren’s Syndrome

The doctors of Vista Dental in Medicine Hat are determined to provide patients with all sorts of medical needs with top-quality dental care. Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is one problem with serious implications for oral health, and that’s particularly true in cases caused by the autoimmune disorder Sjögren’s Syndrome.

An autoimmune disorder is one in which the body’s immune system attacks the body. It is unclear what causes Sjögren’s Syndrome but it has a high comorbidity with lupus, which usually appears in people who are genetically predisposed to it after they suffer trauma or an infection. Sjögren’s Syndrome affects the entire body but it first dries out the tear and saliva ducts. Without saliva, food debris accumulates in the mouth, allowing bacteria and fungi to rapidly multiply. Dryness also disrupts the functioning of the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infection.

Testing for Sjögren’s is done with a sample of the patient’s salivary glands. These are plucked from the inside of the patient’s lower lip during a procedure called a biopsy. Only a local anesthetic is necessary for this, although suturing is sometimes done afterward. If Sjögren’s is confirmed as the cause of dry mouth, the patient will need to begin using saliva substitutions and may be prescribed medication to stimulate additional saliva production.

Vista Dental is located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 403-548-7077 or visit Vista Dental MH.

 

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is frequently a factor in cases we treat at Vista Dental. We depend on saliva for a number of functions, including breaking down food, washing away food residue and harmful bacteria, and maintaining our comfort. When our saliva runs out, we suffer from bad breath and are at increased risk of oral infections. People who wear dentures may have difficulty getting them to stay in place. The outside of the mouth can also dry out, leaving the lips sore and cracked.

Unfortunately, one of the most common reasons for dry mouth is that it is a side-effect of a large number of cancer and psychiatric medications. (Scientifically, dry mouth is known as xerostomia.) A less-common reason for dry mouth is Sjögren’s syndrome, which is a disease that also causes the eyes to dry out. Patients who cannot change their medications or take medications to stimulate saliva production they may need to buy mouth rinses and other artificial moisturizers. Chewing sugar-free gum is another way to stimulate additional saliva production.

Vista Dental is located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 403-548-7077 or visit VistaDentalMH.Ca.