Why can't I just get a cleaning?

Many people wonder why they can't just call to get their teeth cleaned without paying for a doctor exam as well. First of all it's in your best interest to have your teeth examined because even severe dental problems may not hurt and treating them early is easier, and less costly, than treating them later.
But until recently it was against the law to have any work done, including a cleaning, without diagnosis by a dentist. Maine has passed a new law, Independent Practice of Dental Hygiene, allowing certain hygienist to clean teeth without the oversight of a dentist. However, they cannot diagnose problems and must report any obvious findings to your dentist, but without the benefit of x-rays to tell how serious a problem you might have.

Gum Disease and Diabetes

Can gum disease affect diabetes? Can diabetes affect gum disease? The answer to both questions is YES!
Diabetics have greater difficulty healing wounds than healthy individuals. Gum disease is like a wound of the gum tissues (that's why gums bleed!) So diabetics are at greater risk of gum tissues not healing and therefore allowing more bacteria into the blood stream which can complicate other problems for which diabetics are at risk such as heart disease and stroke.
On the other hand, gum disease is a risk factor for the development of type II diabetics (also known as adult onset diabetes). By diagnosing and treating your gum disease early, your risk for developing diabetes might be lowered, saving you from years of diabetes problems.