Open Wide

OK, getting back to the mouth. According to the American Dental Association, the number one cause of dental problems for people with diabetes is gum disease. Everyone has billions of bacteria in their mouth and most are harmless. But when certain bacteria interact with starches and sugars from food, a sticky film called plaque forms on the teeth. Letting plaque stay on the teeth can cause the gums to become red and swollen and they might bleed when a toothbrush finally does come to wash them away. This stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis, or early gum disease.

Periodontitis is a more advanced form of the disease. It can destroy the gums and other tissues that hold your teeth and bones in place, which can lead to tooth loss.

It’s important to be aware of the signs of periodontitis:

We hate to sound like your mom here, but please, don’t put off your visit to the dentist! Many adults who otherwise take good care of themselves avoid dental appointments, sometimes for years. The results can be really serious, especially for people with diabetes. Small problems can worsen and result in a lasting impact on health and comfort.

Other Problems You Don’t Want

If you have diabetes you’re more likely to experience other dental problems like these:

• Cavities. Plaque contains acid that attacks the surface of the teeth, which causes cavities (tooth decay).
• Thrush. Thrush is a fungal infection that causes creamy-looking white patches usually on the tongue or inner cheeks.
• Dry mouth. This means you don’t have enough saliva to keep the mouth and teeth moist. Dry mouth can cause tooth decay, gum disease, or thrush.

Captain Toothbrush to the Rescue!

The first step to prevent these painful, uncomfortable conditions is to keep your blood sugar under control. This means working with your care team on a plan that covers the medicine, food, and activity to keep you in your target range. The closer you are to your target, the lower your chance of developing serious dental conditions. Other important actions you should take include:

HCD Helps You Manage Your Diabetes

Living with diabetes isn’t easy. There are lots of moving parts and lots of things to think about, including avoiding complications of the teeth and gums. That’s where Home Care Delivered comes in. We help lighten the load by delivering the insurance-covered medical supplies you need to manage your diabetes, including monitors, testing strips, and Continuous Glucose Monitors right to your door. You get to avoid the stores and the crowds and can rest assured that these essential products will always arrive on your doorstep each month.

Get Insurance-Covered CGM & Diabetes Supplies

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Disclaimer:

Unless otherwise noted, the recommendations in this document were obtained from the sources indicated. Be advised that information contained herein is intended to serve as a useful reference for informational purposes only. HCD cannot be held responsible for the continued accuracy of or for any errors or omissions in the information. All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.