DIABETES-ORAL HEALTH LINKS-2 WAY STREET
Happy “Tooth-Day”!
Farah Flossit here, spreading good vibes to all!
If you have diabetes, it’s important to take good care of your teeth & gums. Why? Gum disease can make your diabetic condition worse. Additionally, if you have diabetes, & good dental care can lower your chances of developing periodontal (gum) disease. Research suggests that the relationship between gum disease & diabetes is a two-way street. One disease impacts th other. Because diabetes reduces the body’s ability to fight infection, the gums are likely to be affected. Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the gum & bone. People with uncontrolled blood sugar have a tendency to develop periodontal diseases more often & more severely. They are also more likely to lose more teeth than people who have their diabetes under control.
Diabetes makes the body more susceptible to bacterial infection, so people with diabetes have an decreased ability to fight germs that invade the gums. Diabetes impairs the immune system, making it more difficult to fight off bacteria & fungal infections. In addition, diabetics typically produce less saliva–the body’s way of naturally rinsing the mouth. Diminished saliva productions can lead to dry mouth & tooth decay.
If you do have diabetes, it is imperative that you tell the dentist. As recommended for all children, with & without diabetes and/or gum disease, getting your cleanings & exams at least 2x a year will help in keeping your gums & teeth healthy. Remember to brush your teeth gently, at least 2x a day for 2 minutes, giving special attention to the gum line & floss at least once a day.
As parents, there are measures you can take to protect your family’s oral health to reduce the risk of developing conditions such as gum disease & tooth decay. One common method for reducing the chances of oral problems associated with diabetes is to control glucose with medication & proper diet low in sugar. The American Dental Association (ADA) has found that patients with poorly controlled glucose levels are more likely to develop gum disease than those whose glucose levels are controlled. To help members of your family control blood sugar, consider consulting with your primary care physician regarding healthy eating practices for patients with diabetes.
Below you will find a visual chart to highlight the important facts about DIABETES & ORAL HEALTH:
Thank you for tuning in on today’s Happy “Tooth-Day’s” report!
I look forward to chatting with you all next week!
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Your Friend,
Farah Flossit (Special Agent Flossit)
