Life with diabetes requires careful attention to every detail, from blood sugar monitoring to meal planning and staying active. Small signs like sore gums or persistent bad breath can quietly disrupt that balance, signaling inflammation that affects blood sugar control and overall health. Taking care of oral health is an essential step toward maintaining stability, reducing complications, and supporting well-being.

At Silegy OMFS, we have over 25 years of experience serving the Long Beach community. We’re dedicated to providing personalized care for patients with unique health needs, including those with diabetes. We can offer specialized treatment plans to help prevent complications for patients with diabetes or pre-diabetes. Dr. Silegy is dedicated to prioritizing your overall health and well-being, ensuring you receive the best possible care tailored to your unique needs. 

How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?

Generally, patients with diabetes or pre-diabetes are more likely to have issues with their blood sugar. If an individual’s blood sugar is poorly managed, health problems in the oral cavity are much more likely to occur. At Silegy OMFS, we understand how diabetes impacts not just your body but your quality of life. Dr. Silegy is here to help you take control of your oral health and feel confident again.

Diabetes often leads to a range of oral health challenges that can disrupt your ability to eat, smile, and feel your best. Common problems affecting diabetic patients include the following:

  • Dry mouth and reduced saliva production
  • Soreness, ulcers, and other infections
  • Tooth decay
  • Gum inflammation (gingivitis) and periodontitis
  • Poor healing in the tissues
  • Impaired or damaged blood flow
  • Thrush and other fungal infections in the mouth
  • Burning mouth or tongue

If you have diabetes or pre-diabetes, it’s essential to communicate with your dental provider. Dr. Silegy can help identify oral health issues related to diabetes, treat these problems, and prevent and mitigate damage in the future. Please reach out to us if you have any concerns about your dental health.

The Importance of Preventive Dental Care for Diabetic Patients

We know how difficult it can be to juggle multiple doctor visits and health priorities, but preventive dental care can make a significant difference in how you manage diabetes and protect your oral health. Our team at Silegy OMFS works closely with your medical provider to create a plan tailored to your needs, ensuring that your oral health supports your overall well-being.

Patients with diabetes are much more likely to need dental visits more than twice per year. Some may need regular checkups three, four, or more times yearly. These checkups can help mitigate damage to the immune system and teeth, keeping them healthy for the long term. They’ll also help identify and treat issues more quickly, helping protect your weakened immune system from any complications.

Tips for Diabetic Patients to Maintain Good Oral Health

In addition to having your medical team communicate with Silegy OMFS, there are a few more recommendations we encourage you to consider. The following tips will help you keep your smile in good oral health throughout the year and between dental visits:

  • Keep your blood sugar as close to normal as possible, keeping your glycosylated hemoglobin (HgA1C) level below 7%
  • Talk to your regular doctors before scheduling oral surgeries or treatments for periodontal disease
  • Give Silegy OMFS your doctor’s name and phone number
  • Provide a list of all the names and dosages of medication you are taking
  • Postpone non-emergency dental procedures if your blood sugar is not well-managed; acute infections should always be treated right away
  • Follow Dr. Silegy’s instructions for post-care closely
  • Floss your teeth at least once a day to prevent plaque buildup
  • Brush your teeth after every meal
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Quit smoking

If you need any additional recommendations for protecting your dental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are dedicated to providing personalized guidance to ensure every step of your oral care supports your diabetes management. From treatment options to post-care recommendations, we’re here to make it easier for you.

Why Choose Silegy OMFS for Diabetic Oral Health Care?

At Silegy OMFS, we understand the unique challenges diabetic patients face when it comes to oral health. With over 25 years of experience in serving the Long Beach community, our team is dedicated to helping diabetic patients prevent and manage dental complications through personalized care and treatment plans.

Dr. Tim Silegy, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, works closely with your medical team to ensure comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Reach out to us today to discuss how we can help you maintain optimal oral health and prevent complications. Call us at (562) 496-1978 or visit our contact form.