“Uncontrolled blood sugar lowers the healing response, which makes repairing gums and fighting off infection that much harder,” says Dr. Benjamin A. Lawlor of Maine
Cosmetic Dentistry near Portland, Maine. “The mouth is the gateway to the body and is a perfect environment for bacteria to multiply.”
Oral health and diabetes go hand in hand. Having a serious infection may contribute to rising blood sugar levels. “This means that not only does having diabetes make an infection harder to fight, but also having serious gum disease may make diabetes harder to control,”
Dr. Katia Friedman, owner of Friedman Dental Group, says.
Here are ways to take better care of your teeth and mouth when you have diabetes:
Control your blood sugar
Watch out for signs of gum disease – “The earliest warning of gum disease is when your gums bleed after brushing or flossing,” Lawlor says. Gum disease also can make your gums look bright red; plus, gum disease has a distinct smell, he adds. Other signs of gum disease shared by Friedman include:
See a dentist every four to six months – “This is really the only way we can ensure that the gums stay healthy and avoid potential bone loss,” Lawlor says. Your dentist can take X-rays to check for bone loss and schedule regular cleanings. “The cleaning will flush out the bacterial homes and stimulate the gums to better health,” he says.
Brush your teeth twice a day
Having dental insurance is an important part in keeping your teeth and mouth healthy. Cosmo Insurance can provide you with plans that cover all your dental needs. Call Cosmo Insurance Agency to receive guidance on choosing the right health insurance plan for you. 732-363-3888.
