Take Charge of Your Diabetes: Healthy Teeth

Tips To Keep Your Teeth Healthy

Get a dental exam once a year or more often if your dentist says you need it. At your exam, your dentist or dental hygienist can:

• Explain how diabetes affects your teeth and gums and check for problems, like cavities or gum disease.
• Treat any problems you have with your teeth or gums.
• Teach you how to check for signs of gum disease at home.
• Provide care, like a fluoride treatment, to keep your mouth healthy.
• Tell you how to treat problems, such as dry mouth.

Work with your dentist to create a health plan for your teeth.

• Ask your dentist how to take care of your teeth at home and how often to come in for a dental visit.
• Ask what to do if you start having problems with your teeth or gums.
• Ask your dentist to send your exam results to your other doctors after every visit.
• Be sure to keep your next dentist  appointment!

Take care of your teeth at home.

• Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush two times a day or more.
• Use toothpaste with fluoride and floss once a day.
• Check your mouth for red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, loose teeth, a change in how your bite feels, or bad breath.
• Visit a dentist if you think you have gum disease.
• Limit food and drinks that are high in sugar.

How Can Diabetes Harm Your Teeth?

• Diabetes is linked to gum disease, also known as periodontal disease.
• Gum disease can lead to tooth loss.
• If people who have uncontrolled diabetes get treated for gum disease, their blood sugar will go down over time.

What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
• Gums pulling away from the teeth or sores on the gums.
• Loose teeth or change in bite or tooth position.
• Bad breath.