Did you know that oral health and diabetes are closely related? If you have diabetes, you are more susceptible to developing oral health problems like gum disease, which, in turn, makes blood sugar control harder to manage and can impact diabetes.
A few helpful guidelines can help you break the vicious cycle and successfully manage your dental health and diabetes. Here's what you should know.
Consistent Brushing and Flossing Protects Your Teeth and Smile
Keeping plaque buildup at bay with consistent daily brushing and flossing will help you combat gum disease. Brush twice daily and floss once using proper techniques to remove plaque and buildup of bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
If you haven't already, consider switching to an electric toothbrush. An electric toothbrush will do the hard work of brushing for you, timing your brushing to ensure you reach the recommended two minutes.
Visit Your Greeley Dentist Every Six Months for Preventive Dentistry
Visiting your dentist bi-annually for preventive teeth cleanings and checkups protects your teeth and oral health and helps you successfully manage diabetes. Detecting gum disease early can give you options for treating it, and some patients can even reverse gingivitis when we spot it right away.
If you have diabetes, your dentist may recommend additional teeth cleaning throughout the year to successfully manage your condition.
Additional Tips for Managing Diabetes
It's important to be aware that some medications for diabetes can cause dry mouth. Dry mouth is a condition that promotes problems like tooth decay and cavities.
Controlling blood sugar levels successfully will promote better oral health since gum disease won't be exacerbated.
Talk with your dentist about using an antibacterial mouth rinse to help reduce plaque and bacteria buildup. Limiting your intake of sugary foods will help protect your teeth and dental health.
Smoking and tobacco use weaken your immune system. Quitting will also protect your oral health and help you better manage your diabetes.
Contact your trusted dentist in Greeley at (970) 356-5277 to schedule an appointment or answer your oral health questions.