Preventing Gum Disease When You Have Diabetes

More and more people in the United States are being diagnosed with diabetes. This horrible disease affects the nerves, kidneys, heart, and other organs. Unfortunately, it can also affect oral health.  As dreadful as this problem is, much research has been done to try to combat or prevent complications before they get out of control. Below are five tips to help anyone with diabetes to prevent gum disease.

Brush, Brush, and Brush

One of the earliest forms of hygiene you learned as a child was to brush your teeth.  Brushing your teeth and brushing them properly can make a big difference for the amount of bacteria growth in your mouth. If you aren't aware of the proper method of brushing, it is strongly recommended you discuss this with your dental care provider. He or she is trained to demonstrate proper brushing procedures. In addition to brushing, flossing is a crucial component of oral hygiene.

Importance of Flossing

If you have been to a dentist you have undoubtedly heard about the importance of flossing.  Everyone should floss, but if you have diabetes, you should make this just as much a priority as brushing.  Remember to be as gentle as possible when flossing to prevent cutting the gums. Cutting the gums will make healing especially difficult if you are diabetic.

Acidic Drinks

Energy drinks are widely popular these days. However, the high levels of acidity in the energy drinks are detrimental to your oral health.  Avoiding soft drinks and even water with lemon to ensure that the least amount of acid goes into your mouth as possible is crucial. Why?  The large amount of acid in soft drinks and citrus fruit such as lemon can cause tooth enamel to wear down, which leads to gum disease.

Time for a Checkup

As part of your preventative oral heath, it is important for you to visit the dentist for a checkup every six months. Getting a checkup on time can allow the dentist to detect any problem early on and therefore have a better chance to treat any minor problems or infections that might arise.

Diabetes is being diagnosed more and more each year.   Gum disease is just one of the complications that can arise if your oral health is not taken seriously. Gum disease for a diabetic is much more difficult to combat than for a non-diabetic.  Be wise! Educate yourself on preventative measures and live your best life. For more information, contact a dentistry such as New Image Cosmetic & Family Dentistry.


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