kay, be honest – when
was the last time you
flossed your teeth or
visited your dentist? Though
we all know dental hygiene is
important, many of us neglect
our pearly whites. This is
particularly problematic if you
have diabetes because the
condition bumps up the risk of
developing health problems with
your teeth, mouth and gums.
“To protect yourself, it’s
important to recognise and
quickly treat signs of dental
changes or problems,” says
Professor David Manton, from
the Faculty of Medicine,
Dentistry and Health Sciences at
the University of Melbourne.
“Good blood glucose control
combined with an appropriate
diet and effective oral hygiene
can effectively reduce dental
complications from diabetes.”
According to Diabetes
Australia, tooth decay, gum
disease, dry mouth, thrush and
mouth ulcers are all more
common in people who have
diabetes. To reduce the risk,
here’s what you need to know:1 Avoid decay
Changes in glucose caused by
diabetes impact the health of
saliva, causing higher levels of
mouth bacteria. This causes a
build-up of dental plaque, which
can damage tooth enamel.
“The bacteria uses sugars to
create acid which can dissolve
the tooth structure and cause
decay,” Prof. Manton explains.
SIGNS Toothache or sensitivity
with hot or cold foods. White,
brown or black spots on teeth.
TREATMENT Fillings are used
to treat dental cavities. If the
cavity has spread into the tooth
pulp, root canal may be needed.
PREVENTION
● Use a fluoride toothpaste. The
Australian Dental Association
(ADA) recommends brushing in
circles for two minutes morning
and night, and flossing daily.● Cut back on alcohol and quit
smoking as both damage enamel.
● Reduce foods that are starchy,
sugary or that stick to teeth
(such as caramels) or are acidic
(like vinegar or citric fruits).
● Minimise snacking. “The more
often snacking occurs, the higher
the decay risk,” says Prof. Manton.
● See your dentist regularly –
the ADA recommends checks
every six months for scaling,
cleaning and assessment.2 Keep your
gums healthy
The risk of gum disease is three
times higher in people with
diabetes, shows research from
the University of Texas. “If your
diabetes is not well controlled,
you’re more susceptible,” says ➤Te e t h
talk
Brush up on your tooth
care routine and protect
yourself from diabetes-
related complications
O
Chatter
boxdiabetic living JULY/AUGUST 2017 103LIVING well