When you have diabetes, your oral care requires extra attention. Diabetes reduces your resistance, making it easier for bacteria in plaque to strike. This happens especially when your blood sugar levels are often too high. And because of problems in your mouth, your blood sugar levels remain less stable. This can leave you spinning in circles.
Your diabetes medication often causes dry mouth. Less saliva also means weaker defenses against bacteria. This increases the risk of gum disease. In addition, your recovery is worse: wounds and inflammations often do not heal as well in people with diabetes. Extra attention for your mouth is therefore important.
Preventing Problems
The most important thing to prevent problems is to keep your blood sugar levels as stable as possible. Your doctor can advise you on this. Of course, brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste is also important. And we recommend that you clean the spaces between your teeth and gums thoroughly with brushes, sticks and floss. In addition, watch for changes in your mouth. Do you have dry mouth or red gums? If so, come by and we’ll review your oral health, treat any problems and give you tips for proper oral care at home.
What problems arise with diabetes?
Diabetes puts you at higher risk for:
– Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
– Gum inflammation with loss of jawbone (periodontitis)
– Fungal infections
– Dry mouth
– Holes
In our practice we work with the Gewoon Gaaf prevention method.
This prevention method from the Ivory Cross is for children ages 0 to 18 and their parents/caregivers. Want to read more?