ecause of high
blood glucose,
people
with diabetes are more likely to have problems with their teeth and gums.
There's a lot you can do to take charge and prevent these problems. Caring
for your teeth and gums every day can help keep them healthy. Keeping
your blood glucose under control
is also important. Regular, complete dental care helps prevent dental
disease.
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Signs of Dental Disease
Sore, swollen, and red gums that bleed when you brush your teeth are
a sign of a dental problem called gingivitis.
Another problem, called periodontitis,
happens when your gums shrink or pull away from your teeth. Like all infections,
dental infections can make your blood glucose go up.
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Preventing Dental Problems
Keep Your Blood Glucose Under Control
High blood glucose can cause problems with your teeth and gums. Work
with your health care team to keep your glucose levels as close to normal
as you can.
Protect your teeth by brushing twice or more a day and flossing
each day. |
Brush Your Teeth Often
Brush your teeth at least twice a day to prevent gum disease and tooth
loss. Be sure to brush before you go to sleep. Use a soft toothbrush and
toothpaste with fluoride. To help keep bacteria from growing on your toothbrush,
rinse it after each brushing and store it upright with the bristles at
the top. Get a new toothbrush at least every 3 months.
Floss Your Teeth Daily
BBesides brushing, you need to floss between your teeth each day to help
remove plaque, a film that forms on
teeth and can cause tooth problems. Flossing also helps keep your gums
healthy. Your dentist or dental hygienist will help you choose a good
method to remove plaque, such as dental floss, bridge cleaners, or water
spray. If you're not sure of the right way to brush or floss, ask your
dentist or dental hygienist for help.
See your dentist at least once every 6 months. |
Get Regular Dental Care
Get your teeth cleaned and checked at your dentist's office at least
once every 6 months. If you don't have a dentist, find one or ask your
health care provider for the name of a dentist in your community.
See your dentist right away if you have trouble chewing or any signs
of dental disease, including bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, bleeding
or sore gums, red or swollen gums, or sore or loose teeth.
Give your dentist the name and telephone number of your diabetes health
care provider. Each time you visit, remind your dentist that you have
diabetes.
Plan dental visits so they don't change the times you take your insulin
and meals. Don't skip a meal or diabetes medicine before your visit. Right
after breakfast may be a good time for your visit.
From the
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Division of Diabetes Translation
September 11, 2003
http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/tcyd/dental.htm
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