Diabetes and Oral Health

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is important for diabetics, as they have an increased risk of developing oral infection and periodontal disease.

Diabetes is a health condition that makes it difficult to manage blood sugar levels, and as a result, can lead to high levels of sugar in the blood and saliva. Extreme blood sugar levels can weaken white blood cells, making it harder for the immune system to fight infection. In addition, sugar in saliva feeds bacteria, amplifying any existing infection in your mouth.

It’s also shown that periodontal disease makes it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, though the reason is not known. When present in diabetic patients, periodontal disease can increase chances of other serious conditions, including kidney disease and heart attack.

Common symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Red and swollen gums
  • Bleeding from brushing or flossing
  • Receding gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Pain when chewing

Treatments for Periodontal Disease

  • Antibiotics

Antibiotics for periodontal disease can be oral or topical. Topical antibiotics are put underneath the gum line to fight infection.

  • Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep dental cleaning, where plaque is removed from below the gum line. This process often involves local anesthesia and sometimes is split into two office visits to complete.

Please let your healthcare provider know if you have or at risk for developing diabetes.

Our Location

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Drs Conway & Sardina

Monday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-5:30 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-3:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

    I've been going to Dr. Conway for many, many years. Never have had any issues, scheduling or otherwise. All staff are friendly, professional and highly skilled at their roles. Would recommend this office to anyone needing dental work. 

    Bart F.


    As someone who has suffered with debilitating gum disease throughout my life, I know what it is to rely on quality dental care. Dr. Sardina has treated me for 30 years, and because of her knowledge, skill and compassionate care, my smile is bright and my mouth is healthy today. I place my trust in Conway and Sardina Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, for myself, my family and friends.

    Laurie T.

    Staff is very friendly and dentists are very good at what they do....have already recommended them...they get 5 stars from me. Joe Ski

    Joseph S

    The staff makes me feel at home and the doctors are patient and caring.

    Gloria M.

    Thank you so much for giving me back my smile.

    Eileen F.

    The whole staff is super friendly and make you feel comfortable during your visit.

    Omar G.