Diabetes And Dental Care

A person with diabetes is at a greater risk for gum disease and other mouth infections than non-diabetics.  This is important to know since infections can make the blood glucose level rise.  When blood glucose levels are high that can make the mouth infections worse, so it's a cycle that can lead to many problems.
 

GUM DISEASE

What is gum disease?  Simply put, gum disease is an infection in your gums.  The infection starts with plaque, which is a sticky film made of germs.  Plaque forms on your teeth and lives at the gum line.  If it isn't removed (by good brushing and flossing) it forms in a hard substance called tartar that builds up under the gums.  If plaque and tartar irritate your gums, the gums can become red, tender and swollen.  Your gums might bleed when you brush them.  This is called
gingivitis.  If gingivitis is ignored gum disease can get worse.

If gum disease goes unchecked your gums may begin to pull away from your teeth.  If this happens the teeth may begin to look longer or you might see the roots of your teeth.  Pockets can also form between the gums and the teeth where germs and pus can accumulate.  This is called periodontitis.  The teeth may start to move around loosely.  If periodontitis occurs you might need
surgery to save your teeth otherwise the jaw bone can be destroyed.

Here are some of the warning signs of gum disease:
 

• Swollen or tender gums
• Gums that are red
• Bleeding gums when you brush or floss
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Loose teeth
• Bad breath
• A change in the way you teeth fit when you bite
  

Diabetes care extends to the mouth as well as to the food you eat and the activity you do.  Taking care of your teeth is just as important as checking your blood glucose level.  Invest in a good toothbrush and replace it every three months.  Try to floss your teeth too.