Illume is reminding all diabetics about the importance of maintaining good oral health in support of World Diabetes Day 2014 tomorrow. 

Organised by the International Diabetes Federation, World Diabetes Day is an annual event that occurs every year on November 14th in order to engage millions of people worldwide in advocacy and awareness of the condition.

This year’s theme, Healthy Living and Diabetes, is focused on the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle to successfully manage the condition and reduce the risks of complications associated with the disease, such as loss of eyesight, immobility and poor oral health.

When diabetes is poorly managed it can lead to periodontal or gum disease in both adults and children.

Illume’s Practice owner, Tim Rumney, explains, “Inflammation that starts in the mouth actually seems to weaken the body’s ability to control sugar. This can bring increased difficulties for those with diabetes as it impairs the body’s ability to utilise insulin.  Furthermore, if diabetes is not strictly managed, there may be higher than usual levels of glucose in the mouth fluids. This will encourage the growth of gum disease-causing bacteria.

“What’s more, as diabetics have persistently high blood glucose levels they are three times as likely to develop dental problems. We advise regular appointments with both a dentist and a hygienist and maintenance of good oral health. Many people are unaware of the link between periodontal disease and diabetes; however the good news is that an appropriate dental health programme including regular brushing and flossing can go a long way to preventing oral problems associated with diabetes."

Illume has an excellent team of hygienists who offer a range of services to support clients in maintaining excellent oral health - these include measurement of plaque levels, assessment of gum disease and tooth decay, treatment of any localised flare ups and application of antibacterial agents within the practice and advice for maintaining a good oral health routine at home, reducing the risk of developing dental problems.

Tim continues, “Here at Illume the oral health of our clients is of the utmost importance; we do all we can to provide both high quality treatment and advice to encourage clients to maintain both good oral health and a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining healthy gums helps in the control of diabetes and well controlled diabetes in turn makes it easier to maintain healthy gums."

For any further advice about good oral health please visit our dedicated web pages or alternatively please contact the practice directly on 01242 522230.