The Best Way to Confront Diabetes is to Prevent It

More than 29 million Americans have diabetes, according to the National Institute of Health data. What’s even more alarming, is that 86 million are on the verge of the disease. Diabetes is a serious condition. The diabetic person has an increased risk of heart disease, kidney, eye and nerve diseases, among the more serious complications.

The best way to confront diabetes is by preventing it. Some of the symptoms are excessive thirst and frequent visits to the bathroom to urinate. If you happen the symptoms, it is wise to see a physician right away to get a blood test. Your doctor will perform the hemoglobin A1C test. This test measures the average blood sugar level over the past three months. It is the most accurate way today to measure diabetes status. Ideally, one should aim for an A1C test of 6 or less. There is some controversy about this, and some doctors with aim for an A1C test a 5.5 or less to be ideal. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you should have the A1C test at least twice a year and I recommend you should also know this number when you visit your dentist or periodontist. If one of my patients has diabetes, I asked them about their A1C right away. Unfortunately, most people don’t know it.

Here is why it is important to keep a record of your A1C number:
1. If you have a high A1C number, it means your diabetes is not under control.
2. You should not have any dental surgery if your A1C is extremely high, because you are at high risk for infection.
3. If your A1C is high, you have a higher risk to develop periodontitis or gum disease. Pay attention to easily bleeding gums and loose teeth.

The National Institute of Health wants to educate everyone through their program “Know your diabetes ABCs“. Check out next week’s blog, as I am joining in this effort to bring you diabetes dental education!

In great health,
Dr. Sanda

Contact Dr. Sanda Moldovan to schedule a consultation with an award-winning periodontist and nutritionist.