5 Tips Managing Diabetes and Gum Disease

Over 9% of the American population has diabetes. It’s estimated 1.7 million new cases are diagnosed annually. The condition affects your body’s ability to process sugar, so you must make significant changes to your lifestyle to control it. Unfortunately, your body isn’t the only thing to suffer the effects of diabetes. It can also harm your smile. Your dentist in Northgate has the tips you need to invest in your dental health while controlling your diabetes.

Link Between Diabetes and Dental Health

Gum disease is a preventable infection that destroys the supporting structures of the teeth. At least 50% of adults have a form of it, making it the leading cause of tooth loss in the U.S. Not only can the infection damage your smile, but the bacteria can enter your bloodstream through the pressure of chewing. As it circulates throughout your body, it increases your risk of several health concerns, including diabetic complications because it causes an inflammatory response.

Diabetes lowers your body’s ability to heal and fight infections. As a result, you’ll be more prone to gum disease. If the infection occurs, it will be more difficult to treat. It’s best to be proactive about your oral hygiene to prevent gum disease in Northgate.

Tips to Prevent Gum Disease

You can manage your diabetes and ward off gum disease by following a few simple tips from your dentist:

1. Avoid consuming acidic drinks, like soda or energy drinks, to preserve your enamel. Even lemon water can erode the hard outer layer of your tooth.

2. Use high-quality dental floss to clean between each tooth at least once a day. If you don’t floss daily, you leave as much as 40% of your teeth’s surfaces uncleaned, allowing plaque and tartar to accumulate. Flossing is the only way to remove the buildup to protect your gums.

3. It’s best to brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes each session. Rushing through your brushing routine can leave plaque on your teeth. Take the time to brush for the full 2 minutes to ensure every tooth surface is clean.

4. After brushing your teeth, don’t forget to clean your tongue, which can harbor bad bacteria. Use your toothbrush to gently scrub your tongue for a few seconds.

5. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan to help you reach optimal oral health to foster your general wellness.

Don’t let diabetes leave a lasting mark on your smile. Simple changes can help you better manage your diabetes while ensuring your teeth and gums last for a lifetime.