Understanding the link between diabetes and obstructive sleep apnea 

At RK Dentistry, Dr. Richard J. Koeltl and his team are dedicated to looking at the patient as a whole, not just the smile. This is because oral health and wellness can be connected to other medical conditions. Danville, California, patients interested in the links between disorders such as diabetes and sleep apnea will often have many questions for our team.

Sleep apnea and diabetes connections

Sleep apnea and insulin resistance are closely related conditions. People who have sleep apnea are much more likely to develop insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. Patients who have conditions including type 1 diabetes are also at risk of a wide range of conditions that can also affect their oral health or leave them susceptible to obstructive sleep apnea. Many conditions coexist, and treatment of one can treat another. This is why it is so vital that you discuss your entire medical history with Dr. Koeltl and his team to get a proper evaluation and diagnosis of your oral health needs.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is the repeated interruption of breathing that occurs during sleep. It can cause symptoms such as loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness. This condition is often linked to obesity, which can be a problem for those who do not adequately manage their diabetes. Addressing one can address another, providing multiple benefits for the patient.

Request a visit with Dr. Richard J. Koeltl of RK Dentistry

Danville, California, area patients interested in learning more about how their overall health impacts their smile can talk to our team of professionals to get down to the science and start taking charge of their oral health. Whether you have been diagnosed with diabetes or are at risk of diabetes, it is time to talk with a medical team about your needs to ensure your oral health does not deteriorate. 

Call 925-732-5516 to request a visit at our practice, located in Suite 200 at 4165 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, and is open to new and returning patients. Our office serves families in Pleasanton, Livermore, Concord, Alamo, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Moraga, Lafayette, Dublin, Clayton, and Pleasant Hill, CA.