How regular teeth exams in Asheville NC are important for patients with diabetes

Diabetes is a metabolic disease in which your body’s blood glucose (sugar) levels can rise higher than normal. Patients who have diabetes are unable to use insulin properly, which causes the elevated glucose levels.

Patients with diabetes are often acutely aware of the importance of proper nutrition to maintain their oral health. But what many don’t realize is patients with diabetes can be up to twice as likely to develop oral problems such as gum disease.

Patients with diabetes are at a higher risk for the following oral issues:

• Gum disease
• Dry mouth
• Tooth decay
• Thrush
• Improper healing after oral procedures

It is vital for patients with diabetes to maintain proper oral care at home along with regular teeth exams. By staying proactive about your dental care you can help maintain the health of your mouth. Consider the following tips:

• Maintain at least twice yearly visits to the dentist to have your teeth and gums cleaned.
• Floss your teeth at least once each day to help prevent a buildup of plaque.
• Brush your teeth in the morning and evening or after every meal. Use a soft toothbrush.
• Denture wearers need to make sure to clean them daily.
• Consider quitting smoking. If you need help with resources for quitting, ask your dentist.
• Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in the mouth.

At Family Dental Health of South Asheville, we are equipped to handle the special oral care needs of our patients with diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes it is important to let us know so that we can design a plan of action for keeping your mouth healthy. Please let us know if you’ve had a recent hypoglycemic episode and when you last took insulin.

For a dentist who truly understands the unique needs of diabetes patients, call 828 585 4049.