October is Diabetes Awareness Month. For those suffering with diabetes, every month is diabetes awareness month. The disease requires constant attention and alters the way sufferers think about what they eat, where they go, and generally, how they function.
Yet not until recently have diabetics considered the impact of gum health on their glucose levels.
Let’s take a look at a specific case study done right here in Bakersfield at Dr. Franks dental office. The study can show us how addressing gum disease directly improves the life of a diabetic patient.
We will call this patient Mike.
Mike presented in our Bakersfield dental office with an abscessed tooth and periodontal disease. Dr. Frank discussed treatment options along with the potential issues associated with gum disease, like the risk of heart attack and diabetes.
As it turns out, Mike had already suffered a heart attack, and in his own words, his diabetes was out of control. Mike is 34 years old.
Our dental hygienists provided periodontal therapy for his gum disease and prescribed The Perio Protect Method (https://www.perioprotect.com/how-it-works/#method). Progress was monitored throughout his treatment.
After starting treatment with Dr. Frank, Mike showed significant improvement in not only his gum health but also in his glucose levels. Hemoglobin A1C, a measurement of blood sugar, is used regularly to monitor diabetics. Patients without diabetes measure 5.6 or less. Patients with controlled diabetes measure 6.2-7.2. Mike was 9.3 before treatment. After addressing the infected tooth and the infected gums, his A1C score dropped to 5.8!
After a full year, Mike continues to monitor his diabetes, but at 5.7 a year later, he feels much better and in control of his diabetes.
As you observe Diabetes Awareness Month here in Bakersfield or anywhere in the nation, take a hard look at one of the most important contributing factors – your gum health! Even if you do not have diabetes but have been diagnosed with gum disease, consider the treatment option that delivers results in the comfort of your own home with The Perio Protect Method.
Treat your gums nicely! Dr. Thomas Frank is proud to be a Perio Protect dental provider in Bakersfield California.
As a premier cosmetic Bakersfield dentist, Dr. Thomas Frank is providing a higher quality and standard of health care to his patients by linking the mouth with the body. As an active member of both the American Academy of Oral-Systemic Health (www.AAOSH.org) and Wellness Dentistry Network (www.WellnessDentistryNetwork.com), he collaborates with other medical professionals and practitioners across the country to improve inter-disciplinary healthcare.