Everyone needs a good dentist, and this is particularly true if you have diabetes. Diabetes ups your risk for a wide range of oral health problems, making dental hygiene and a relationship with your family dentistry practice even more important. Family First Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, makes caring for your oral health simple, offering flexible scheduling and walk-in appointments. Committed to serving your individual needs, their experienced team offers custom-tailored care backed by the latest dental technology.

Here, these dentists offer some insights into why oral hygiene is extra important for diabetics:

• Gum Disease: Gum disease is a common dental health complaint amongst people with diabetes. While often reversible in its early phases, as gum disease progresses, it can become a serious problem, possibly requiring surgery. Keep an eye on your gums, brush and floss regularly, and talk to your dentist if you experience redness, tenderness, or swelling.
• Oral Infections: High blood sugar levels can contribute to oral infections, which in turn can make your blood sugar harder to control. Stop this vicious cycle before it starts by calling your dentist immediately if you’re experiencing pain persistently and/or when you eat cold, hot, or sweet foods. Dark spots on your teeth and white or red patches in your mouth are also signs of an infection.
• Dry Mouth: Dry mouth causes more than discomfort. Because there’s limited saliva to wash away decay-causing bacteria and acids, dry mouth can lead to cavities, salivary gland infections, and other oral health issues. If you’re experiencing dry mouth, sipping water, chewing sugarless gum, and avoiding mouthwashes with alcohol can help.

Brushing and flossing regularly, controlling your blood sugar, and properly cleaning your dentures will help prevent these dental issues. So will seeing your dentist regularly. To make an appointment with the team at Family First Dentistry today, call (907) 562-2820, or visit their website to learn more about how they can serve you.