Have Diabetes And Need A Root Canal? Follow These 3 Tips
Posted on: 20 August 2015
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People that have diabetes have a much greater risk of getting tooth decay and gum disease because of having high blood sugar levels. The body will also have a difficult time fighting infections, and take longer to heal injuries in the mouth. That is why it is so important to promptly take care of a dental infection when it is discovered if you are a diabetic.
If your dentist has recently discovered that you need a root canal due to an infection, follow these 3 tips regarding your diabetes and the implications on the root canal procedure.
Make Your Dentist Aware Of Your Diabetes
You should always let your dentist know if you have been diagnosed with diabetes so they can help you manage it properly during the procedure. You may suddenly have low or high blood sugar during the procedure, which can be due to the stress that you are experiencing. It can also be due to missing a meal too. Let your doctor know so they can respond correctly if there is an issue.
Bring Your Glucose Meter With You
You want your blood glucose levels to be between 70–200 mg/dL prior to the procedure starting. Blood sugar levels that are too high can delay the procedure, and you may need to try relaxation techniques or light exercise that will help lower your stress levels. Low blood sugar can be raised with carbohydrates, so be sure to bring glucose tablets with you.
Your dentist may recommend that you test your glucose levels during the procedure as well to ensure that everything is okay. If you are under a form of anesthesia that does not allow you to take your own blood sugar levels, you may need the assistance of your dentist to do so.
Stabilize Your Blood Sugar Prior To The Procedure
If you are having difficulties stabilizing your glucose levels prior to the procedure, your dentist can prescribe an antibiotic for you to take before you come in. The antibiotic will help fight the infection, and can help make your glucose levels normal again.
You should also schedule the procedure for a time during the day when you notice your glucose levels are typically stable. This may be later in the day after you have had a couple meals, rather than first thing in the morning when you have not had anything to eat throughout the night.
These tips should help your root canal go well, even though you have diabetes. Contact a dentist like Grace Dental if you have questions.