While regular dental checkups are recommended for everyone, they are especially important in people with diabetes. After the age of 40, the risk of gum (periodontal) disease increases.
With diabetes, the risk of gum disease is even higher because diabetes makes the blood vessels in gums narrower. Plaque accumulates more readily since there may be less saliva which usually helps to wash plaque away. In addition, there may be less collagen to support the structures of your mouth which can speed periodontal destruction. This means that your gums can become infected more easily.
Therefore, if your diabetes is not under control, the high levels of sugar in your saliva may encourage the growth of the bacteria that cause cavities.
In addition to visiting your dentist every 6 months, regular brushing and flossing are the first steps to keeping your gums and teeth healthy.
1. Brush at least twice a day. Hold a soft nylon brush at a 45-degree angle, and brush where your teeth meet your gums. Then brush all the surfaces of your teeth, using back-and-forth strokes. Brushing your tongue lightly will also help remove bacteria.
2. Use dental floss once a day to get rid of bacteria between teeth. Your dentist can tell you the best way to floss.
1. Your gums start to bleed when you brush. This may mean that your gums are inflamed and open to infection.
2. You notice that your teeth have shifted or if your dentures no longer fit.
3. You have soreness, tenderness or red spots on your tongue.
4. You have white patches on your gums, which may indicate thrush (a fungal infection).
5. There are changes in texture or color to your gums, teeth or mouth.
6. You often have bad breath. You may have a gum infection or a cavity.
If you need surgery on your gums, be sure to tell your dentist that you have
diabetes, since you may be slow to heal and quick to develop an infection.
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