November is National Diabetes Month!

Keeping a healthy mouth is important to everyone.  Diabetes can make it harder to keep your mouth healthy.  This month, Dr. Mary Rose discusses how to avoid oral health issues while living with diabetes.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you are at a higher risk for both gingivitis (early stage gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease).  Both of these conditions start with plaque, a soft, sticky substance that accumulates on your teeth as you eat and is made up mostly of bacteria.  Diabetics not keeping their blood glucose levels in the target range will have more of an inflammatory response to the bacteria.  High blood sugar can weaken white blood cells.  These white blood cells is your body’s main way to fight infection.  Managing your diabetes helps your body prevent gum disease and other infections in your mouth.

A common oral condition with diabetes is dry mouth.  Aging and some medications can cause dry mouth but for diabetics there is a higher risk of developing dry mouth.  Whatever the cause, the lack of saliva from dry mouth means food debris, acid, bacteria and sugar do not get washed away as easily.

The good news is that diabetics can follow Dr. Mary Rose’s advise to help prevent gum disease!

Brush twice a day: Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste.  Dr. Mary Rose recommends a toothbrush with soft bristles.  Firm bristles tend to wear away the enamel on your teeth. 

Floss once a day: Flossing removes the plaque and food debris between your teeth and along the gum line.  If you are not a fan of flossing, Dr. Mary Rose suggests an interdental device.  The tiny brush is designed to reach areas a regular toothbrush is unable to reach.

Visit your dentist regularly: Depending on the health of your gums, Dr. Mary Rose may recommend hygiene appointments every 3, 4 or 6 months.

Dr. Mary Rose is aware of the needs of diabetics.  When you come to your dental appointment, please communicate any issues you may be having keeping your diabetes under control.  Dr. Mary Rose suggests eating normally and taking your medications on your usual schedule prior to your dental appointments.   Lastly, if you have any concerns regarding your oral health, Dr. Mary Rose would be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.