Diabetes and Oral Health

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is important for diabetics, as they have an increased risk of developing oral infection and periodontal disease.

Diabetes is a health condition that makes it difficult to manage blood sugar levels, and as a result, can lead to high levels of sugar in the blood and saliva. Extreme blood sugar levels can weaken white blood cells, making it harder for the immune system to fight infection. In addition, sugar in saliva feeds bacteria, amplifying any existing infection in your mouth.

It’s also shown that periodontal disease makes it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, though the reason is not known. When present in diabetic patients, periodontal disease can increase chances of other serious conditions, including kidney disease and heart attack.

Common symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Red and swollen gums
  • Bleeding from brushing or flossing
  • Receding gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Pain when chewing

Treatments for Periodontal Disease

  • Antibiotics

Antibiotics for periodontal disease can be oral or topical. Topical antibiotics are put underneath the gum line to fight infection.

  • Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep dental cleaning, where plaque is removed from below the gum line. This process often involves local anesthesia and sometimes is split into two office visits to complete.

Please let your healthcare provider know if you have or at risk for developing diabetes.

Our Location

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Hours of Operation

We look forward to hearing from you.

Monday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

    I have discoloration on my front teeth. Dr. Cajulis eliminated the yellowing. My teeth are whiter and brighter now. I feel more confident smiling. Thank you!

    Jacob K.

    This was my first visit to Dr. Cajulis so she just did an assessment of my dental situation. I thought she was very gentle, knowledgeable and experienced. I felt I could trust her with my dental issues.

    Maria E.

    Dr Cajulis was able to repair my retainer so that I can use it for another couple of years. I was surprised because I thought I would need to have a new one made. She and her staff are always extremely courteous and professional.

    Diana B.

    The team there are beyond professional and courteous. Dr. Cajulis and Bahar are excellent and make you feel comfortable, especially for folks who get nervous with dental visits. :)

    George C.

    Dr. Tamkin took her time and was so nice. I trusted her right off the bat. And her assistant Ashley seemed like a long lost friend. Everyone I encountered was so lovely. Would highly recommend this practice.

    Elisa F.

    Very compassionate and kind. Good at providing patient education.
    Office staff is all very friendly....went above and beyond to provide evidence-based patient /staff safety during covid precautions. Ashley, asst, is a gem!!

    Jean W.