I want to talk to you about diabetes, which is quite common among our senior patients. Dental treatment is necessary, but it can affect your regular routine. Even if you have well-controlled diabetes, there can be potential problems.

Simple things like not eating before an appointment, taking too much insulin, or feeling stressed can cause dangerously low blood sugar levels, known as hypoglycemia, which is a serious medical emergency. Dental visits can sometimes make low blood sugar worse if you’re anxious or stressed.

If your diabetes is not well controlled, you may heal more slowly and have a weaker immune system.

To make sure you stay safe during treatment, we take several important steps:

1. We review your medical history and talk to your primary care physician to understand how well your diabetes is managed, check your HbA1C levels, and know the severity of your condition and the medications you’re taking.

2. We monitor your blood sugar levels before and during treatment.

3. We schedule your treatment during times when your blood sugar levels are usually highest.

4. We know the signs of low blood sugar and can quickly give you a carbohydrate source by mouth or through an IV if needed.