Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Tooth Loss, Diabetes Connection


Complete tooth loss (edentulism) is higher in people with diabetes, a new study from the Journal of the American Dental Association reports. American adults with diabetes are at a higher risk of losing teeth than those adults without diabetes.  And one in every five cases of edentulism in the United States is linked to diabetes.

The study found that 18% of cases of complete tooth loss in the United States are attributed to diabetes.

Tooth loss impacts your quality of life in many ways, including difficulty in chewing and swallowing, slurred or awkward speech and social stigma.

The study also connects tooth loss with lower consumption of dietary fiber, fruits and vegetables and higher consumption of cholesterol and fatty foods.

Diabetes is now, according to this study, a major oral health concern for dental professionals. Diabetes should be considered when trying to determine the causes of tooth loss as it impacts about 22 million people in the United States.

Dr. Staples believes your overall health is reflected in your mouth. As part of your dental exam, Dr. Staples evaluates your mouth for signs of diabetes, risk of tooth loss, oral cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

Dr. Staples can restore your smile, regardless of the condition, with dentures secured by dental implants.

Call today for an evaluation of your dental health with Dr. Staples at 702-991-0404.