Diabetes Care

We understand the special needs of diabetes dental care.

Diabetes and Oral Care

Video Preview of a person doing a diabetes test Click to play movie

Are you a diabetic? Dr. Fidler explains the negative effects of uncontrolled diabetes on your oral health in this short video.

Did you know if you have diabetes, you are more likely to have oral health problems? If you are over 50, that increases the risk even more! Diabetes reduces the blood supply to the gums, which can make you more prone to infections of the teeth and underlying bone. You are also more likely to experience:

  • Difficulty fighting off infections, including gum disease and oral thrush
  • Greater risk of cavities
  • Slower healing times after dental surgery
  • Dry mouth, which helps thrive bacteria

The good news: Our dental team at Fidler on the Tooth wants you to know that with knowledgeable diabetes dental care, you can enjoy excellent oral health. Being a diabetic herself, Dr. Vicki Fidler understands the special needs her patients need in dealing with this condition.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Oral Health?

You can take control of your dental health by following these important tips.

Let your dentist know you have diabetes and any medications you are taking.

Brush and floss at least twice a day and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

If you experience bleeding gums or persistent bad breath, contact your dentist immediately.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash daily. If you have dry mouth, make sure it’s alcohol free.
Schedule biannual teeth cleanings, and if you are subject to plaque, make them more often.
Keep your diabetes under control. If you are a smoker, take steps to quit.
‘‘Always a great experience at Fidler on the Tooth. Thank you for being accommodating, caring, professional, and thorough.’’

David D. (5-Star Google Review)

Specialized Care from a Seattle Dentist Who Understands Diabetes

As a diabetic herself, Dr. Fidler knows about your special needs.

Profile photo of diabetes dental care expert Dr. Fidler

Dr. Fidler first experienced the effects of diabetes during each of her pregnancies when she developed gestational diabetes. Later, it progressed into a form of Type 1 diabetes, latent autoimmune diabetes, which requires management with insulin.

Her first-hand experience with diabetes and how it impacts her own oral and whole-body health gives her a unique insight into diabetes dental care and the special needs of her diabetic dental patients.

As a Seattle family dentist who regularly sees the negative effects of uncontrolled diabetes, she wants to help you enjoy excellent oral health, which will positively influence your whole-body health.

Have Questions About Diabetes Dental Care?

Get the answers from our dentist in Seattle, WA

  • What is the connection between diabetes and gum disease?

    StudiesOpens in study on NCBI website have shown there is a two-way relationship between diabetes and gum disease. People who have diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, and the presence of gum disease negatively affects the ability to control blood sugar and hastens the progress of diabetes! Poorly controlled diabetes that progresses to periodontitis can also have a profound impact on your whole-body health, allowing bacteria to spread throughout the body and affect other systems and organs. If you have diabetes, you can see why it’s vital you take action to protect your oral health. Our team is here to educate and support you. Call us to set up a convenient appointment for a comprehensive exam.

  • Can diabetics get dental implants?

    The short answer is yes. But certain individual factors affect whether or not Dr. Fidler would recommend an implant. Since people with diabetes are prone to bacterial infections, she would first make sure your mouth is healthy and free from gum disease. Next, Dr. Fidler would want to make sure your blood sugar levels are under control. Generally, patients with Type II diabetes are better candidates for implants because this type of diabetes is easier to treat and control. If you have a long history with the disease and have struggled to manage it, it might not be the right option for you. Dr. Fidler will also check your medical history and note how well you healed from any surgeries in the past. Each case is different. It’s only after a thorough exam, consulting your health history, and talking with you that Dr. Fidler will be able to decide whether implants or one of our other restorative dentistry options would be the better choice for you.

  • Does the time of my appointment matter if I am diabetic?

    Yes, it does. In general, morning appointments are better for diabetes dental care. Cortisol levels that control blood sugar are higher during that time. Appointments should also be scheduled to allow you to eat and take your medications at the usual times. Excellent communication with Dr. Fidler and her team will help to make sure we are scheduling your appointments at times that work the best for you. Our Seattle dental office provides diabetes dental care for patients from North Seattle, Ballard, University Village, Wedgewood, Capitol Hill, Sandpoint, Queen Anne, Laurelhurst, and Madison Park. Call us at 206-526-1437 to set-up a consultation with Dr. Fidler.

We Can Help You Have a Healthy Smile!
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