Caring for your teeth when you have diabetes
Anyone can have tooth and gum problems. Plaque, a sticky substance filled with germs (bacteria), builds up on your teeth. This can cause your gums to be sore, red or swollen, or even bleed when you brush.
If you have diabetes and high blood glucose, you can have more problems with your teeth and gums. Blood glucose that stays high can cause more germs to grow and make these problems even worse.
Damage to teeth and gums
You may have damage to your teeth and gums if you have:
- bleeding gums
- sore, red or swollen gums
- gums that pull away from your teeth, which make your teeth look long
- sensitive or loose teeth
- bad breath
- a bite that feels different
- dentures (false teeth) that don't fit well
Call your dentist if you have any problems with your teeth and gums.
How to keep your teeth and gums healthy
People with diabetes need to be extra careful in taking care of their teeth. Regular care can help prevent these problems.
- Keep your blood glucose as normal as possible.
- Brush at least two times a day and always before you go to sleep.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Gently brush in small, circular motions. Be sure to brush the front, back and top of each tooth.
- Floss each day to help remove plaque from between your teeth.
- If you wear dentures, keep them clean.
- Get your teeth cleaned and checked by a dentist every 6 months.
- Remind your dentist at each visit that you have diabetes.
- Don't smoke. This decreases blood flow and causes gum problems.
Dialog home page
Dental hygiene: Adult Dental hygiene: Children Smoking cessation support groups Allina Medical Clinic: Diabetes education Diabetes, endocrinology and metabolism specialists
Source: Allina Patient Education, Basic Skills for Living with Diabetes, dia-ahc-90196 (12/06); National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
First published: 04/24/2008
Last updated: 04/24/2008
Reviewed by: Mary Frederick, RN, MS, CDE, diabetes program manager, Allina Medical Clinic
|