How should I care for my teeth if I have diabetes?
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American Dental Association answered:Regular dental checkups, professional teeth cleanings and periodontal screenings are important to detect and treat dental problems early. Before dental treatment, let your dentist know:
- if you have been diagnosed with diabetes
- if the disease is under control
- if there have been any changes in your medical history
- the names of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking.
If you notice signs and symptoms of oral disease, contact the dental office immediately. Practice good oral hygiene at home, follow your physician’s dietary and medication instructions and schedule regular dental checkups for a healthy smile.
Regular dental checkups, professional teeth cleanings and periodontal screenings are important to detect and treat dental problems early. Before dental treatment, let your dentist know: if you have been diagnosed with diabetes if the disease... More -
Dr. De Vizio of Colgate answered:If you have diabetes, the most important thing to do when caring for your teeth is to see your dentist regularly for cleanings and evaluations. You’ll need to maintain your home care as well, with twice-a-day brushing plus daily flossing. Ask your dentist if an antimicrobial mouthwash would help as well.
Diabetes causes the body to be less resistant to infection, which affects your gums. It’s common for people with diabetes to have periodontal disease, especially if their blood sugar is not well controlled. In addition to regular visits to the dentist, you should also see your dentist if your gums are bleeding easily and frequently, or you have swollen or tender gums, pus in your gums, continual bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, loose teeth, gums separating from your teeth, or bite changes. These can be related to your diabetes and need professional treatment.If you have diabetes, the most important thing to do when caring for your teeth is to see your dentist regularly for cleanings and evaluations. You’ll need to maintain your home care as well, with twice-a-day brushing plus daily... More -
Dr. Jerry Gordon answered:Gum (periodontal) disease is generally more common and more severe in patients with diabetes. This is because blood cells in the gums and jawbone that protect us from infection are not as effective. This means that a diabetic needs to work more diligently on oral hygiene, brushing and flossing, as well as make sure the disease is as controlled as possible.
If you have a dental infection, and require either a root canal or need to have a tooth removed, there are some important things for you to remember. Make sure you eat your normal breakfast before you go to the dentist. If you are taking insulin, take your normal dosage unless your dentist and physician have agreed to alter the dosage. If you have not eaten and are in pain or feel a high degree of stress prior to a dental procedure, this can cause your blood sugar to drop. By eating and taking the proper amount of insulin, you reduce the potentially dangerous complication of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Diabetics, especially poorly controlled diabetics, are at an increased risk for infection- that includes potential complications from dental infections. If your diabetes is under poor control "brittle," and your blood sugar is very high, dental surgical procedures may need to be delayed until you are under better control. In some cases, you may need to take antibiotics prior to and after certain dental procedures to reduce the risk of infection.Gum (periodontal) disease is generally more common and more severe in patients with diabetes. This is because blood cells in the gums and jawbone that protect us from infection are not as effective. This means that a diabetic needs to work more... More
