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

PO Box 636 Morrisville, VT 05661

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "Thanks for a thorough and competent assessment of my dental history and future needs! I feel comfortable that all will be taken care of as needed - and in accordance with insurance payments. I appreciate that the office is a cheerful and comfortable place to come. I feel welcomed in what could be a painful experience! Thanks!"
    Nan B.
  • "I was very impressed and happy to have chosen to go to Brigham Dental care. I often have an extreme fear of going to the dental office, but felt very comfortable at their practice. Everybody was kind, knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions I had to the best of their knowledge! VERY impressed!"
    Alyson L.
  • "My previous dentist retired after 18 years with him. Needless to say I was anxious about finding a replacement. Dr. Ebert and his staff make me feel welcome from the moment I first called the office. The staff is professional and friendly and the office is immaculate. Dr. Ebert takes the time to listen to you and makes sure he addresses all your concerns. I highly recommend!"
    Holly R.