The following article was written by Kent Bush, publisher of the Augusta Gazette, www.augustagazette.com.

Diabetes affects every part of person's life after the initial diagnosis.

According to reports, diabetes affects about 15.7 million Americans and nearly 800,000 new cases are diagnosed each year.

"If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you may know that the disease can cause problems with your eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart and other parts of your body. Diabetes can lower your resistance to infection and can slow the healing process," said Dr. Rob Colt of Augusta Family Dentistry.

But Dr. Colt pointed out that there are dental implications for those suffering from the dreaded disease, as well.

"People with diabetes are more prone to have gum disease, gingivitis, periodontal disease," Colt said. "Because of that, they are more likely to have a high risk of losing their teeth."

Colt said he sometimes asks patients who suffer from diabetes to schedule regular check-ups more than the normal twice a year.

He said the irony of the disease is that higher blood sugar levels mean more sugar in the fluids in the mouth which fuel bacterial growth. So instead of helping clean the teeth, saliva actually becomes an agent of supporting tooth decay. 

The American Dental Association recommends telling your dentist if you have diabetes because any changes in your medical history can also affect your dental care.

It is also important to let your dentist know about you disease because infection is a risk for the diabetic patient and can make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels.

If you are having oral surgery, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection. To help the healing process, keep your blood glucose levels under control before, during and after surgery.

Diabetes is just one disease whose affects also affect your dental care.

Good treatment is easier with good information. Keep your dentist informed about any significant changes in your health.