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Gum disease and diabetes

The gum disease-diabetes connection

November is Diabetes Awareness Month

Severe periodontal (gum) disease often leads to tooth loss, but scientific research suggests a link to a variety of universal health conditions, including diabetes.

The gum disease – diabetes connection is a two-way street. Periodontal disease makes it difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar, thus increasing the need for insulin and risk for complications.

Diabetes can also make people three to four times more likely to develop chronic periodontal infections.

If you have diabetes, be sure to tell your dentist. People who have both diabetes and periodontal disease should be treated to eliminate the periodontal infection.
 
Help keep your gums and body healthy by practicing good oral hygiene habits. This includes daily brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist for examinations and X-rays. MORE>>


Trick or treat!

Halloween is a kid’s dream come true and a dentist’s worst nightmare. The overload of sugary candy and treats screams tooth decay.

Many dentists put their own spin on goodies for trick-or-treaters by offering candy buy-back programs or handing out toothbrushes in lieu of sugary treats.

The bacteria in dental plaque use sugar to form acids that eat away at protective tooth enamel, which leads to cavities and decay. Parents and guardians also can help promote the oral health message by teaching kids to keep their teeth and gums healthy with daily brushing and flossing. And make sure Halloween stays a special treat by keeping excessive candy eating from turning into a year-round habit.

Learn more about kids’ oral health by visiting the WDA.org Kids' Corner.

 
What's New

Recordkeeping tips for dentists
View Dentistry Examining Board white papers on topics including recordkeeping tips, CPR requirements for dentists, anesthesia, conscious sedation advertising, teeth whitening and more.

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H1N1 vaccination recommendations for dental providers
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention recommends seasonal and 2009 monovalent H1N1 influenza vaccination for all health care workers. Specifically, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services considers dentists and dental hygienists as "front line health care workers" and should receive top priority in H1N1 vaccinations.

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Upcoming Events

Legislative Day 2010
Attend WDA Legislative Day on Wednesday, Feb. 17 at the Monona Terrace in Madison. The goal of Legislative Day is to help dentists and dental students become comfortable communicating dentistry's message to elected officials.

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Red Flags Rule
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has issued another delay in the enforcement of its Red Flags Rule, which would have gone into effect Nov. 1. The new deadline is June 1, 2010. The rule requires financial institutions and creditors to have written protection to identify, detect and respond to relevant warning signs of identity theft. The ADA has developed tools to help dental offices comply.

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Partner Links

American Dental Association
Greater Milwaukee Dental Association
Marquette University School of Dentistry
WDA Insurance Programs
WDA Professional Services/The Dental Record


© 2009, WDA Wisconsin Dental Association   6737 W. Washington St. Suite 2360, West Allis, WI 53214   Tel 414-276-4520   Fax 414-276-8431