November Is National Diabetes Month: Why Oral Health Matters
November is National Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness about the impact of diabetes on overall health including your oral health. At Georgia School of Orthodontics (GSO), we believe a healthy smile is an important part of total wellness. If you or a loved one is living with diabetes, understanding how it affects your teeth, gums, and orthodontic treatment can help you maintain a confident, healthy smile.
How Diabetes Affects Oral Health
Diabetes doesn’t just affect blood sugar levels, it can also impact your gums, teeth, and bone health. High blood sugar can lead to:
· Gum inflammation and infection (gingivitis or periodontitis): Elevated glucose levels can make it easier for bacteria to grow in the mouth, leading to gum disease.
· Slower healing: Cuts, sores, or irritation in the mouth may take longer to heal, especially after dental or orthodontic adjustments.
· Dry mouth: Reduced saliva flow can increase the risk of cavities and discomfort, making it harder to keep braces or aligners clean.
Maintaining stable blood sugar levels and a consistent oral hygiene routine is key to reducing these risks.
Orthodontic Care for Diabetic Patients
Good communication and planning make a big difference for diabetic patients considering braces or Invisalign. At GSO, our orthodontists take special care to design treatment plans that align with your overall health.
Here’s how diabetes can affect orthodontic treatment — and how we manage it:
· Gentle adjustments: Braces adjustments are done carefully to minimize stress on the teeth and gums.
· Hygiene guidance: We provide extra support for brushing, flossing, and cleaning around brackets or aligners to prevent infection.
· Collaborative care: Our team can coordinate with your dentist or physician to ensure your diabetes management supports your orthodontic progress.
With proper care and monitoring, patients with diabetes can achieve outstanding orthodontic results and a beautiful, lasting smile.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health with Diabetes
Here are a few tips to help protect your smile during orthodontic treatment:
1. Maintain good blood sugar control — keeping your glucose in a healthy range helps prevent gum problems.
2. Brush and floss after every meal — clean around brackets, wires, or aligners to remove bacteria and food particles.
3. Stay hydrated — drink water throughout the day to combat dry mouth.
4. Visit your dentist and orthodontist regularly — early detection of gum or tooth issues makes treatment easier.
5. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks — these can increase the risk of cavities and interfere with blood sugar management.
A Healthy Smile Starts Here
At Georgia School of Orthodontics, our team is dedicated to helping every patient, including those managing diabetes, achieve the smile they deserve. With careful planning, open communication, and expert care, orthodontic treatment can be safe, effective, and transformative.
If you have diabetes and are considering braces or Invisalign, we’d love to guide you through every step of your smile journey. Schedule your complimentary consultation today, call 770-351-7737, and discover how GSO can help you smile with confidence.
