Here at Buckden Dental Clinic, we use a Blood Glucose Monitor to check our patients’ glucose levels before extensive treatment to ensure predictable and safe dental treatment.
Our dentists also check the glucose level of patients who have uncontrolled periodontal disease (gum disease). There is a clear link between patients with periodontal disease and diabetes.
It is estimated that around 1 in every 11 people in the world has diabetes, of those 46% are undiagnosed.
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Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in plaque that irritate and cause inflammation of the gums. Over time, the bone that supports the teeth recedes, causing the teeth to become mobile and eventually fall out altogether.
Gum disease can also increase your blood sugar levels, which can cause more complications to diabetes and other areas of the body, such as the heart, blood vessels, eyes and kidneys. People with Type 2 Diabetes are around three times more likely to develop dental problems than people who don’t have diabetes. People with Type 1 Diabetes are also more at risk.
Monitoring is the key to achieving good blood sugar control. The diabetic person is recommended to maintain a blood sugar level above 4 mmol/l. A non-diabetic person will have a blood glucose level of 4-8 mmol/l depending on when they last ate.
Unfortunately, the average Type 1 diabetic will only spend about 30% of the 24-hour cycle with blood glucose levels within this normal range. Having a controlled blood sugar level is vital to reducing the risk of periodontal disease and other health complications.
Children with Type 1 Diabetes (NICE 2015):
Adults with Type 1 Diabetes (NICE 2015):
Type 2 Diabetes (Diabetes UK Council of Healthcare Professionals 2015):
Pregnant women with Diabetes (NICE 2015):
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How does diabetes affects oral health and increases dental risks?
People with poorly controlled Diabetes or who have had it for many years are at greater risk for dental problems.
How can your dentist help detect diabetes?
Diabetes can go undiagnosed for many years. You must attend regular check-ups with your dentist. We are often the first to notice other changes in our patients’ health, other than their oral health. Sudden changes in gum health can sometimes indicate Diabetes. In these instances, we can quickly check your blood sugar levels to assess the stability of your blood sugar levels and, if necessary, recommend a check-up with your registered doctor.
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