Dental Care Tips for Diabetics
Diabetes is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide each year. It is a health condition that affects all parts of the body, including the nerves, heart, kidneys, and eyes. It is a disease that also affects the mouth. As a dentist who cares about the Southern Pines community, Dr. Amy Moubry is committed to providing the best possible dental care for diabetic patients.
Here’s what diabetes does to your oral health:
In general, diabetes increases your risk for unwanted dental problems. When the condition is uncontrolled or undiagnosed, high levels of glucose may be found in the saliva which can promote the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
Diabetes also reduces your resistance against infections and this makes you much more susceptible to bacterial infections such as gum disease, while also slowing or preventing sores and infections in the mouth from healing.
Common Dental Concerns for Diabetics:
- Gum disease (technically known as periodontal disease)
- Dry mouth
- Bad breath (also known as halitosis)
- Tooth decay (also known as cavities or caries)
- Burning mouth syndrome
- Thrush (an oral fungal infection)
- Salivary gland dysfunction
- Taste impairment
What Can You Do?
- Brush your teeth after meals or at least twice a day.
- Use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean the hard to reach areas between the teeth and around dental restorations.
- Ask the dentist about mouth rinses or supplements to prevent cavities and dry mouth.
- Schedule your routine cleanings and checkups as often as the dentist and hygienist recommend. This may be 3-4 times each year, rather than every 6 months.
- Monitor and control your diabetes. Uncontrolled or poorly controlled diabetes will be a contributing factor to gum disease and tooth loss.
For more information and advice for overcoming the oral health challenges associated with diabetes, contact a Southern Pines dentist for help today.