DIABETES CAN HARM YOUR TEETH AND GUMS : TIPS FOR GOOD ORAL HEALTH
If your diabetes is not well-controlled , you have a higher chance of getting mouth infections , particularly periodontal ( gum ) disease . This disease can damage your gums and the bones that hold your teeth in place and it might make it painful to chew . Sometimes , people with serious gum disease even lose their teeth .
Diabetes and some medications used to treat it , can cause a dry mouth . Saliva protects the tissues in your mouth as it washes away food particles , prevents bacteria from growing and fights acids formed by the bacteria in your mouth . When your mouth is dry , you have a higher risk for dental cavities and gum disease .
Diabetes can also increase the amount of glucose in your saliva . Bacteria in your mouth uses the glucose and forms a soft , sticky film called plaque . This , in turn , builds up on your teeth near your gum line and hardens into a deposit called tartar , which can cause gum disease .
Take time to check your mouth regularly . If you notice any of the following signs of oral health problems , tell your dentist right away :
• Dry mouth
• Bad breath or taste in your mouth that does not go away when you brush your teeth
• Gums bleed when you brush and floss
• Sore gums or painful white patches
• Loose teeth or gums pulling away from your teeth
• If you wear dentures , a change in the fit of the dentures
The good news is you can keep your teeth and gums healthy , even if you have diabetes . Here are some important things to do :
• Keep your blood glucose levels under control
• Brush your teeth with a small , soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for two minutes , at least twice a day : Every morning and every night
• Floss every day to clean between your teeth ( once daily , or at least 4 times a week )
• Avoid sweets , sugary foods and sugar-filled drinks ( if you do eat these , limit them to mealtimes ). Read nutritional content on food labels . Have 25g ( 6 teaspoons ) or less of sugar every day
• Make it a habit to rinse your mouth with water after every meal
• If you smoke , try to quit . If you are finding it difficult to quit smoking , start by reducing the number of cigarettes . Smoking makes gum disease worse and more difficult to manage blood sugar levels
Visit a dental healthcare professional * at least once a year , for routine checkups or more often if your dentist says you need it . Be sure to tell the dentist that you have diabetes and supply a list of the medications you take .
Periodontal disease can make it hard to control your blood sugar levels . Taking good care of your teeth and gums , including getting regular cleanings and necessary treatments , will help you prevent these oral health problems or stop them from getting worse . Keeping your mouth healthy , can have a positive impact on your overall health .
* Benefits payable on the BonCap , Primary , Primary Select and Standard Select options are subject to the use of a Designated Service Provider ( DSP ) dentist on the DENIS Dental Network . If there is no DSP in your area , contact DENIS before you go for treatment on 0860 336 346 .
Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 4 | 2023
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