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Diabetes impacts the way your body handles sugar. As a result, it can lead to problems with your heart and kidneys. It can also have an effect on your oral health as elevated blood sugar levels increase the likelihood of gum disease and dental decay. The guide below explains what extra oral hygiene steps you should take under these circumstances.

How Does Diabetes Impact Your Oral Health?

The greatest threat to your teeth is harmful oral bacteria. When they metabolize sugars left in the mouth, they create wasteful byproducts such as dental plaque and acids, which weaken tooth enamel and lead to the formation of cavities. A strong oral hygiene regimen is designed to remove sugars that these bacteria can feed on, slowing the rate of decay.

oral hygienePeople with diabetes have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels, which, in turn, gives the bacteria more to feed on. This increases the risk of cavities and periodontal disease drastically. 

What Oral Hygiene Steps Should You Take?

Biannual dentist visits are an important step to spot gingivitis, the precursor to periodontal disease, and to get a deep cleaning that will remove built-up tartar. You should also make an appointment if your gums start bleeding after brushing, if they look swollen or tender, or if you develop consistent bad breath since these can be warning signs.

Controlling blood sugar levels and adopting a diabetes-friendly diet will also limit the chances of bacterial infections. Brush after each meal with a soft-bristle toothbrush, floss once daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill oral bacteria.

If you’re a smoker, you should also consider quitting, as it can lead to a dry mouth, limiting saliva production that can wash away negative bacteria.

 

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed as diabetic or it’s a condition you’ve managed for years, you can attend to your oral health by visiting Allen S. Braumiller Jr. DDS, PC in Coweta, OK. With more than 33 years of experience, he performs everything from orthodontic work to fillings to routine oral hygiene checkups. To learn more about the services he offers, check out the practice online. Call (918) 486-6516 to schedule an appointment.

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