Elder Care in Plainview NY
When it comes to elder care and diabetes, the more you know the better.
Having diabetes puts your elderly loved one at greater risk for gum disease. But what many caregivers may not know is, some serious forms of gum disease may also lead to the progression of diabetes according to the American Diabetes Association.
If your loved one has diabetes, he or she has an increased risk for gum disease, like gingivitis and periodontitis. Having diabetes causes a person to be more susceptible to bacterial infection and also a decreased ability to fight that bacteria.
This relationship between diabetes and gum disease is all the more reason why taking care of your elderly loved one’s oral health is vitally important.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a metabolic disease that causes an inability to produce any or enough insulin in a person’s body causing elevated levels of glucose in the blood.
What is gum disease?
Periodontal or gum disease can range from inflammation to tooth loss. According to the National Institute of Dental Craniofacial Research, 17.20% of seniors age 65 and over have periodontal disease.
Some risk factors for gum disease include:
● Diabetes
● Smoking
● Some illnesses and treatments
● Medication
● Genetics
Symptoms of gum disease may include:
● Loose or sensitive teeth
● Receding gums or teeth that appear to be longer
● Bad breath that does not go away
● Swollen or red gums
● Bleeding or tender gums
● Painful chewing
What you need to know about oral health and blood sugar
What is necessary for good oral health in your loved one involves taking care of his or her teeth, mouth and gums. Doing so will help your loved one control his or her blood sugar, enabling the body to fight infections. Additional facts about blood sugar and good oral health include:
● Persons with diabetes are twice as likely to develop gum disease.
● Infected gums make it harder to control blood sugar.
● Infections can cause gums to bleed, feel swollen and lead to tooth loss.
● Preventing the progression of gum disease will help control your loved one’s blood sugar.
Tips for healthy gums
● Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
● Floss regularly
● Get routine dental checkups
● Don’t smoke
Controlling the infection is the goal when being treated for gum disease. Treatments vary, but they all require that your loved one maintain good oral health at home. Always consult your loved one’s doctor or healthcare professional if you suspect that he or she has or is at risk of gum disease, especially if he or she has already been diagnosed with diabetes.
Need some help?
Your loved one’s home care provider is there to assist your loved one as much as possible. This includes assisting with daily tasks that have become increasingly more difficult as your loved one ages or respite services. Utilize your home care provider as much as you can. Doing so will make providing elder care to your loved one all the more better.
If you or an aging loved one are in need of elder care services in Plainview, NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
Sources
Seniors Oral Health
National Institute of Dental Craniofacial Research
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