If you are one of the almost 30 million people in the U.S. living with diabetes, it’s important you know the facts on how your disease can impact the overall health of your teeth and gums. Did you know that because of your body’s inability to properly fight glucose, you are at an increased risk for a variety of gum problems? In more severe cases, you are also likely to develop gum disease.

Diabetes largely affects your mouth’s ability to fight off plaque and other disease-causing bacteria. Your best bet in preventing gum disease is effective brushing, routine flossing, and regular checkups with your Dental Care Center dentist.

Brushing: For careful cleaning, make sure you are brushing both the inner and outer surfaces of your teeth. Take time to brush at the base of your teeth right along the gum line. In addition, it’s important you regularly change out your brush for a new one. Make sure your bristles are gentle, yet effective enough to keep your gums free of plaque.

Flossing: At the Dental Care Center, we recommend flossing at least once a day. However, in order to avoid plaque build-up, consider bringing floss with you to use after each meal. This will help loosen food particles and keep disease-causing bacteria from sticking to your gums.

Check-ups: Schedule an appointment with your Dental Care Center dentist a minimum of every six months. At your appointment, speak openly with your dentist about any pain, tenderness, or overall changes you are noticing in your teeth and gums. Work with your dentist to create a prevention plan!

For more information on how your diabetes affects your dental health, call the Dental Care Center nearest you!