Dental Health Check with Dr. Linda Niessen
Dental health topics from Dr. Linda Niessen of Baylor College of Dentistry
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 Dental Diabetics

By Dr. Linda Niessen
Monday, June 28, 2004

STORY:  Dental Diabetics

Two diseases, when combined, cause multiple problems for the patient. Diabetes and periodontal or gum disease are often conditions diagnosed at about the same time. Scientific research finds that controlling one disease helps control the other. Dr. Linda Niessen explains in this segment of Dental Health

For Mary Wortham and Allan Andres a trip to the dentist helps them control their diabetes.

"I think good glycemic control is definitely a plus for dental health," said Allan.

Mary said, "Gum disease has so muchconnection with the well being of the diabetic."

Research shows that healthy gums help patients stabilize blood sugars, also called glycemic control.

"Glycemic control is going to make the diabetic healthier, therefore, it allows the body's immune system to control the periodontal disease better, because their overall systemic health is better," said Dr. Stephen Bass, Periodontist.

Before gum surgery, diabetic patients should be well controlled. Allan continued, "And since I've been under control, glycemic control, I've had two gum surgeries and we were amazed at how quickly the gums healed."

And Mary added, "I've been a diabetic for 24 years and I do know that when my gums are well that actually helps me to feel better, as far as keeping my blood sugars under control."

Both Allan and Mary undergo special deep cleanings to control periodontal or gum disease.
 
According to Dr. Bass, "We're going further below the gum line than they get in a routine cleaning and we're being very thorough removing the bacteria below the gum line."

Even the well controlled diabetic needs to see the dentist at least twice a year. Because if you prevent periodontal or gum disease, you may also may control your diabetes. For Baylor College of Dentistry, Texas A&M System, I'm Dr. Linda Niessen, Channel 8 News.

Dr. Linda Niessen, clinical professor in the Department of Restorative Sciences and  the Office of Communications and Development at Baylor College of Dentistry, hosts Dental Health Check, the only weekly dental feature shot on location in the nation.

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