During the month of November, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) sponsors “American Diabetes Month.” They use this month to raise awareness about diabetes risk factors and encourage people to make healthy changes. The ADA suggests that there is a “Two-Way Street” associated with diabetes and oral health. “Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to serious gum disease, but serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.”
At Group Health Dental, we would like to remind you that there are steps you can take to prevent dental problems associated with diabetes.
Steps To Take
- Control your blood glucose level. Gum disease may play a role in causing your blood sugar to rise and may make your diabetes harder to control.
- Maintain a healthy oral health routine by brushing your teeth for two minutes, two times per day and flossing one time per day.
- Maintain your regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months.
- Avoid smoking. According to the Center for Disease Control, “people with diabetes who smoke are more likely than nonsmokers to have trouble with insulin dosing and with controlling their disease.”
- If you wear dentures, clean them daily.
- Control thrush (a common fungal infection associated with diabetes).
- Control dry mouth, which can cause soreness, ulcers, infections and cavities.
Group Health Dental will help you prevent the potentially damaging effects of diabetes on your dental health. Book your regular exam and checkup with our office today. We have over 35 years of experience and we will provide you with the personalized and convenient dental care you need and deserve in our warm and inviting environment.
