Diabetes and Gum Disease

Gum disease is unfortunately common, and some people have more trouble fighting it than others. The doctors at Bishop & Bishop Dental in Silver Spring see a lot of people who face oral health complications, of which one of the most common is diabetes. People with diabetes have greater difficulty fighting infections, and the relationship between the diseases is a two-way street.

It is not completely clear why people with uncontrolled blood sugar have higher rates of infections. We do know that diabetes causes people’s arteries to thicken, limiting the flow of nutrients throughout their bodies. We also know that once an infection develops in the gum pockets, the body will become less able to regulate glucose, resulting in a feedback loop. Gingivitis, also called gum inflammation, is the body’s initial response to a gum pocket infection. (There are other potential causes, but infection is the most common.) Bleeding gums result from inflammation, and if an infection progresses, the gum tissue could recede. At this point, the teeth would be much more sensitive and would be at risk of coming loose.

Gingivitis is treatable. During deep cleanings, we remove bacterial build-up from below the gum line, where patients can’t reach. When infections are controlled, the body has an easier time controlling blood sugar. If you have diabetes, it is especially important for you to brush and floss, but we’re happy to provide you with more assistance.

Dr. David Bishop, Dr. Dorienne Taylor-Bishop, and Dr. Alicia Reynolds operate Bishop & Bishop Dental at 8757 Georgia Ave, Suite 810, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20910. To set up an appointment, call 301-608-9270 orvisitBishop Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

Thank You for Your Continuous Reviews!

Here at Bishop & Bishop Dental, our staff appreciates feedback from patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Carter A. for this positive review, but we would like to thank him for being a dedicated patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know! 

“He (Dr. David Bishop) is a very good dentist. I had lots of problems with my teeth when I first went to see him. He has resolved many of them, and the problems stay resolved. I have been going to him for a couple years now, and I would definitely recommend him. He does good work. I have had crowns and root canals done. He seems to be efficient, and I haven't had any problems with any work he has done.”

If you would like to leave a testimonial or are interested in learning more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.bishopdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. David Bishop at Bishop & Bishop Dental here in Silver Spring, Maryland, call 301-608-9270.