Teeth Care from a Complete Health Dentist When You Have Kidney Disease
A complete health dentist wants individuals to know that taking proper care of the mouth is essential when suffering from kidney disease. The two most common dental issues that complete health dentists deal with are tooth decay and gum disease. Both can lead to infections which leads to complications for people with diabetes, tooth decay or kidney disease.
A complete health dentist explores how oral health impacts kidney disease
Let us take a closer look at how gum disease and tooth decay can impact a person with kidney disease:
1. Tooth decay
A complete health dentist says gum disease and tooth decay are both caused by plaque. This is the sticky bacterial film that forms on teeth surfaces. The bacteria in plaque reacts to starches and sugars left over from meals, releasing acids that damage teeth surfaces. The erosion eventually leads to the formation of cavities which are tiny holes that develop on teeth.
Tooth decay typically occurs with symptoms like toothaches, holes on teeth, inflammation and sensitivity to hot and cold foods. A badly-decayed tooth can develop an infection.
2. Gum disease
Gum disease occurs when calcified plaque called tartar builds up on the gum line. One of the first symptoms to show up are gums that bleed easily after brushing or flossing. The buildup of tartar leads to gums pulling away from teeth surfaces, and pockets of food and bacteria begin to build up. The early stage of gum disease called gingivitis can be reversed, but the advanced stage known as periodontal disease can only be managed.
The impact
Research from complete health dentists currently indicates that people with kidney disease are more likely to develop gum disease and other dental issues. Kidney disease weakens a person’s immune system and that makes them more susceptible to infections.
Kidney disease can also lead to bone loss in the jaw due to the calcium imbalances it causes. That can lead to teeth becoming loose or falling out. People with kidney disease can combat this by taking calcium supplements.
Those with kidney disease are advised to consult with a doctor and complete health dentist before undergoing dental treatments. They might need to take antibiotics to help protect them against infection during their treatment. The complete health dentist should also be aware of the patient’s condition since this allows them to schedule treatments for the most appropriate times. For example, surgical treatments like an extraction can be performed on days the patient will not be undergoing dialysis.
Patients who are getting ready to undergo kidney transplants are advised to get a complete oral examination from a complete health dentist prior to the operation. Infections like gum disease can force surgeons to postpone such treatments.
Diabetes is one of the main causes of kidney disease and the condition has also been linked to tooth decay and gum disease. People with diabetes are more prone to having dry mouth, gum disease, cavities and infections.
Make your oral health a priority
Call or visit our Minnetonka clinic to learn more about how kidney disease is linked to oral health.
Request an appointment here: https://www.holgerdentalgroup.com or call Holger Dental Group at (952) 777-7006 for an appointment in our Minnetonka office.
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