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November has arrived and that means, it is National Diabetes Awareness Month. In an effort to shed light on how this common, yet, harmful disease can negatively impact more than just your overall well-being, a dentist in Medford explains how it can directly affect your oral health if not monitored or treated. Read on to find out what you can do to keep problems from occurring in your mouth as a result of your diabetes.
What Type of Impact Does Diabetes Have on Oral Health?
When living with a disease that affects your blood sugar levels and causes your immune system to weaken, it can be difficult trying to manage other areas of your body and prevent additional problems from developing. With more than 3 million people living with Type 1 diabetes, it should come as no surprise that gum disease can easily occur if your condition is not properly monitored or treated.
When gum disease is present, it attacks the gum tissue, resulting in an infection that can create gum pockets. These developments make it easy for harmful bacteria and food particles to become trapped. This leads to red, inflamed, and even bleeding gums. If diabetes is already a condition you are battling, you can expect it to be much more difficult to restore and repair your gums.
What Can You Do to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Blood Sugar in Check?
Two of the most important aspects of maintaining healthy gums and keeping your blood sugar in check are to see your emergency dentist in Medford for dental checkups and cleanings and your doctor for diabetes treatment. Should you discover that gum disease has developed, it will be necessary for you to visit your dentist’s office more frequently to receive a dental checkup in Medford and periodontal therapy.
Other ways you can improve your oral health include:
- Brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day for two minutes
- Using fluoride toothpaste or one that is designed to combat gum disease
- Floss in-between your teeth at least once a day
- Rinse with an ADA-approved mouthwash
- Avoid consuming too many sweets or starchy foods, as this can encourage bad bacteria to grow and spread
- Eat a well-balanced diet that is rich in nutrients to strengthen tooth enamel, encourage optimal oral health, and keep decay and disease away
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products as well as limiting your alcohol consumption
Living with diabetes doesn’t have to result in a downward spiral for the rest of your health. Take the necessary steps to improve and maintain your teeth and gums as well as monitor your blood sugar levels. By doing so, you’ll be on the path to a better, more enjoyable life.
About the Author
Dr. Gary Rosenfeld completed his doctorate at Columbia University Dental School in 1984 before completing a General Practice Residency at Sea View Hospital on Staten Island. Dr. Rosenfeld and his team at Island Daily Dental Care want to help you achieve optimal oral health, which means discussing your oral and overall health and finding ways to improve your well-being should you discover you have gum disease as a result of diabetes or another health-related condition. To find out how he can help you, visit our website or call (631) 286-9000.