If you have diabetes, it’s critical for you to visit your family dentist regularly. According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes have a higher risk of developing gum disease and other oral issues than those who don’t. If you can’t remember the last time you went to the dentist for a professional teeth cleaning, turn to William B Collier Jr DMD in Enterprise, AL.

Below, the family dentist shares eight dental care tips for diabetics:

1. Assess Your Brushing Routine

If you have diabetes, it’s critical to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Quality matters as much as frequency when it comes to brushing, so make sure you are brushing every surface of each tooth thoroughly.

2. Floss Daily

Floss between all of your teeth at least once a day using waxed dental floss to prevent plaque from accumulating in places your brush can’t reach.

3.  Maintain Your Glucose Levels

When your blood sugar gets too high, it becomes easier for plaque to grow on your teeth. Try to maintain normal blood sugar levels, so you can reduce the amount of plaque and tartar building up in your mouth.

4. Avoid Tobacco

Tobacco can make your teeth more vulnerable to dental issues and even oral cancer. If you have diabetes, you’re more susceptible to gum disease already, so it’s best to avoid tobacco altogether.

5. Limit Coffee

Coffee can stain your teeth, and it also contains phosphorous, which prevents your body from absorbing calcium. Your teeth need calcium to stay strong and healthy, so only drink coffee in moderation if you have diabetes.

6. Consider Taking Supplements

It’s natural to consume a diet lacking variety if you suffer from diabetes. If you’re concerned about the diversity of your diet, speak with your doctor about taking supplements to ensure you get all the nutrients necessary for a healthy mouth.

7. Use Mouthwash Daily

Although you don’t have to rinse with mouthwash if you brush and floss frequently, it can give you an added layer of protection from gingivitis.

8. Scrub Your Tongue

If bacteria accumulates on your tongue, it can cause bad breath and even lead to plaque on your teeth. Scrape your tongue at least once a day when you brush to ensure it stays free of bacteria.

If you have diabetes and can’t remember the last time you had an oral exam, turn to William B Collier Jr DMD in Enterprise, AL. Visit him online to learn more about the dental care this family dentist provides, and call (334) 347-5026 to make an appointment.