Oral health warning signs for people with diabetes

If you have diabetes, you know how important it is to take care of your mouth. According to the National Institutes of Health, people with diabetes have an increased risk of developing mouth infections, particularly gum disease. It’s a vicious cycle: diabetes puts people at risk for periodontal disease, and periodontal disease makes it hard to control blood glucose levels. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a dentist on your True Dental Discounts plan immediately:

• Dryness
• Soreness
• White patches
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing

To prevent any serious damage to the mouth, NIH suggests that people with diabetes pay extra attention to their blood glucose levels: “If your diabetes is not under control, you are more likely to develop problems in your mouth.” In addition, it is critical to brush and floss on a daily basis and make regular appointments to visit the dentist. Tell your dentist if you have diabetes so he or she can look closely for signs of gum disease and talk to you about preventing further issues.

The dentist can also help you address any fitting problems you may be having with your dentures. Finally, if you smoke, quit. Tobacco products worsen any existing oral conditions and can contribute to new problems. Your dentist can refer you to a program that will help you break the habit.