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Good oral health is important for everyone. If you have diabetes, it's even more important to take care of your teeth and gums.
Diabetes reduces the body's ability to fight infection, so the gums are more likely to be affected by bacteria in the mouth. This makes people with diabetes at increased risk for gum disease., plus, gum disease can make diabetes worse, so it’s important to keep your blood sugars within a healthy range and brush and floss regularly. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth throughout the day. When the plaque is not removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it irritates the gums and can cause inflammation and swelling, a condition called gingivitis (a mild form of gum disease). If left untreated, this can lead to periodontitis, a severe gum infection that could cause tooth loss.
Be sure to get regular checkups with your dentist every six months or as advised by your dentist. At these visits, your dentist can do routine cleaning and check for signs of gum disease and tooth disease (caries).
Be sure to tell your dentist that you have diabetes. If you haven't had a visit in the last six months, schedule a visit with your dentist soon.