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continued:

Diabetes and dental care: Guide to a healthy mouth

Proper dental care

To help prevent damage to your teeth and gums, take diabetes and dental care seriously:

  • Make a commitment to managing your diabetes. Monitor your blood sugar level, and follow your doctor's instructions for keeping your blood sugar level within your target range. The better you control your blood sugar level, the less likely you are to develop gingivitis and other dental problems.
  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Brush in the morning, at night and, ideally, after meals and snacks. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride. Avoid vigorous or harsh scrubbing, which can irritate your gums. Consider using an electric toothbrush, especially if you have arthritis or other problems that make it difficult to brush well.
  • Floss your teeth at least once a day. Flossing helps remove plaque between your teeth and under your gumline. If you have trouble getting floss through your teeth, use the waxed variety. If it's hard to manipulate the floss, use a floss holder.
  • Schedule regular dental cleanings. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings. Remind your dentist that you have diabetes. To prevent low blood sugar during dental work, you might want to eat before your dental visits.
  • Take special precautions with dental surgery. If you're having dental surgery, make sure that your dentist consults with your doctor ahead of time. You may need to adjust your diabetes medications or take an antibiotic to prevent infection.
  • Look for early signs of gum disease. Report any signs of gum disease — including redness, swelling and bleeding gums — to your dentist. Also mention any other signs and symptoms such as dry mouth, loose teeth or mouth pain.
  • Don't smoke. Smoking increases the risk of serious diabetes complications, including gum disease. If you smoke, ask your doctor about options to help you quit.

Managing diabetes is a lifelong commitment, and that includes proper dental care. Your efforts will be rewarded with a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

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References
  1. Prevent diabetes problems: Keep your teeth and gums healthy. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/complications_teeth/index.htm. Accessed Feb. 8, 2010.
  2. Diabetes and your oral health. American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/public/topics/diabetes_faq.asp. Accessed Feb. 8, 2010.
  3. Diabetes and oral health problems. American Diabetes Association. http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/oral-health-and-hygiene/diabetes-and-oral.html. Accessed Feb. 8, 2010.
  4. Take charge of your diabetes. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/tcyd/dental.htm Accessed Feb. 8, 2010.
  5. Ship JA. Diabetes and oral health: An overview. Journal of the American Dental Association. 2003;134:4S.
DA00013 May 25, 2010

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