Looking Diabetes In The Mouth
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.
Fortunately, Dr. Tim Pranger has taken the correlation to the next step. Through his practice and a specific case study, Dr. Pranger can show us how addressing gum health directly improves the life of a diabetic patient.
Let’s call this patient Nate.
Nate presented with an abscessed tooth and periodontal disease. Dr. Pranger promptly discussed the treatment options and the potential issues associated with gum disease. Among other things, he talked about the risk of heart attack and the potential for diabetes.
As it turns out, Nate had already suffered a heart attack, and in his words, his diabetes was out of control. This is at 34 years old.
Dr. Pranger prescribed the Perio Protect Method and monitored progress.
After initiating treatment, Nate showed significant improvement in not only his gum health but also in his glucose levels. Hemoglobin A1C, a long-term measurement of blood sugar is used regularly to monitor diabetics. Patients without diabetes measure 5.6 or less. Patients with diabetes are well controlled if they measure 6.2-7.0. Nate was 9.3 before treatment. After addressing the infected tooth and the infected gums, his A1C score was 5.8.
After a full year, he continues to monitor his diabetes, but at 5.7 a year later, he feels much more in control. And the photos show a dramatic difference.
So as you observe Diabetes Awareness Month, take a hard look at one of the contributing factors—gum health. And if you’re considering treatment for gum disease, consider the option that delivers results in the comfort of your own home.
For more information, click through to see How It Works, and ask your dentist if he or she prescribes the Perio Protect Method.
