Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy
Periodontitis Alert
Need another reason to keep your blood glucose levels down?
How about your teeth and gum health?
Want to keep your teeth?
Crazy thing -
Periodontal disease
(a fancy name for mouth disease)
is considered the sixth leading complication of diabetes.
But Guess What??
Gum disease may raise blood glucose levels in those WITHOUT diabetes.
So if you have diabetes
AND
gum disease
DOUBLE whammy
MAYBE
even TRIPLE whammy.
Why You Ask?
High glucose allows bacteria in the mouth to grow
Irritating the gums and causing inflammation
which triggers an entire body inflammatory response
which raises blood sugar
which raises blood sugar
which allows bacteria to grow in the mouth
Which causes irritation to the gums
OH WAIT....
We are back to the beginning of a circle
that makes BOTH conditions worse!
Tips and Tricks
Try to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range
Brush your teeth 2x a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste
Get a periodontal evaluation every year
Let your dentist know you have diabetes
Let your doctor know if you have periodontal disease
Stop smoking
Reduce stress
Eat right - lean protein, whole grains, vegetables
Warning Signs
Bad breath
Mouth sores
Loose or separating teeth
Red, swollen, tender gums
Bleeding when flossing or brushing
Mouth pain
Receding gums
Make an appointment if you experience these symptoms.
Let's keep our terrific smiles!!
Have a great numbers day!
Jay