21st Annual American Diabetes Alert Day — March 24, 2009

The American Diabetes Alert Day is sponsored by the American Diabetes Association to raise awareness about the seriousness of diabetes. Take the Diabetes Risk Test to find out if you are at risk for developing diabetes.

Diabetes and periodontal disease

Good oral health not only keeps the mouth infection-free, but there may also be a connection between oral health and the onset of diabetes. Individuals with diabetes tend to be at higher risk of periodontal (gum) diseases.

Periodontal disease is an infection affecting the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place. Advanced stages can lead to problems with chewing or loss of teeth.

Individuals with poor diabetic control may develop periodontal disease more often and more severely than those with good control. While having diabetes can increase an individual’s chance of having periodontal disease, research also suggests periodontal disease may make it more difficult for individuals with diabetes to regulate their blood sugar. When blood sugar goes unmanaged, high glucose levels in saliva may cause bacteria to develop, paving the way for periodontal disease.

Click here to learn more about the stages of periodontal disease and how it can be treated (also available in Spanish).

You can help keep your mouth healthy by controlling your blood sugar, brushing and flossing your teeth, and seeing your dentist on a regular basis.

Follow these steps to keep your mouth healthy:

Brushing:1

  • Brush your teeth for at least three minutes.
  • Choose a brush with soft, rounded bristles.
  • Brush should be angled against the gum line.
  • Use a gentle circular scrubbing motion.

Flossing:2

  • Flossing cleans plaque and food particles from between your teeth and below the gum line, places where your toothbrush cannot reach.
  • When flossing, gently move the floss between your teeth.
  • Make a C-shape when flossing the gum line, scraping up and down on each side of the tooth.
  • As floss gets worn, be sure to move to a clean section.
  • Rinse mouth with water when done.

Visiting the dentist:3

  • Be sure to tell your dentist you have diabetes. Tell them about any issues with infection or problems controlling your blood sugar.
  • Make sure to eat prior to a dental visit. This way your blood-sugar level is in a normal range and your diabetes medication action is low.
  • Be sure to take your normal medications unless your dentist or doctor tells you otherwise. Your dentist and doctor should consult regarding adjustments of your diabetes medication, or to decide if an antibiotic prior to surgery is needed.
  • Stick to your normal diet after dental work is performed.

1, 2, 3 http://www.diabetes.org/type-1-diabetes/mouth-care.jsp

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