Susan Sorensen
Teeth care is key
Published on Wed, Jun 16, 2010 by Susan SorensenRead More Sorensen
Ed. note: The author is on leave of absence and this is a previously published article.
When I finish diabetes education with someone, I give them a small bag of free product samples. One item that always gets the "deer in the headlight stare" is a trial-size of tube of toothpaste. How does toothpaste play an important role in a healthy lifestyle when you are dealing with diabetes?
Our mouths are producing saliva constantly that provides moisture and initiates the digestion process. Elevated blood glucose level may result in a higher level of glucose in your saliva, making you more prone to plaque formation and tooth decay. Studies have shown that people with diabetes are more than twice as likely to develop gum disease, plus it takes longer for any oral infections to heal.
Gum disease is defined as an infection that starts when the bacteria in your mouth forms a sticky plaque on your teeth. Plaque can be removed by regular brushing and flossing but if it remains in place it hardens into tartar that must be professionally removed by a dental hygienist. Once tartar has formed, it quickly can progress to red and swollen gums, a condition known as gingivitis. From that point, it can progress to advanced periodontal disease and infection. This can lead to the loss of bony support of the teeth and then the teeth can become loose.
So what can you do to prevent these potential problems? In simple terms, take care of your teeth! For the reasons that you just read, you should brush your teeth with a soft-bristled tooth brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Flossing is probably the singularly most important action that you can do to control plaque and preserve your oral health.
Be proactive with
your teeth
In addition, using toothpaste that contains fluoride will help strengthen your teeth and the presence of a tartar-control agent will help to inhibit plaque formation. If you are unable to brush your teeth after eating, at least rinse your mouth with water to remove food particles. For those who have neuropathy and are unable to firmly hold a toothbrush, an electric toothbrush may be a wise investment. Whatever you use, replace your toothbrush when you notice wear on the bristles, to ensure that your efforts are effective.
If you have dentures, you are not absolved of good oral hygiene. Ensure that your dentures fit properly to prevent mouth sores that can lead to infections. In addition, remove your dentures at night and thoroughly clean them after meals. Good oral hygiene is truly an example of using an ounce of prevention, so keep your brush and floss handy to preserve that smile!
Susan Sorensen is a registered nurse who does diabetes education in the community and can be reached at www.starladyd
iabetes.com.
When I finish diabetes education with someone, I give them a small bag of free product samples. One item that always gets the "deer in the headlight stare" is a trial-size of tube of toothpaste. How does toothpaste play an important role in a healthy lifestyle when you are dealing with diabetes?
Our mouths are producing saliva constantly that provides moisture and initiates the digestion process. Elevated blood glucose level may result in a higher level of glucose in your saliva, making you more prone to plaque formation and tooth decay. Studies have shown that people with diabetes are more than twice as likely to develop gum disease, plus it takes longer for any oral infections to heal.
Gum disease is defined as an infection that starts when the bacteria in your mouth forms a sticky plaque on your teeth. Plaque can be removed by regular brushing and flossing but if it remains in place it hardens into tartar that must be professionally removed by a dental hygienist. Once tartar has formed, it quickly can progress to red and swollen gums, a condition known as gingivitis. From that point, it can progress to advanced periodontal disease and infection. This can lead to the loss of bony support of the teeth and then the teeth can become loose.
So what can you do to prevent these potential problems? In simple terms, take care of your teeth! For the reasons that you just read, you should brush your teeth with a soft-bristled tooth brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Flossing is probably the singularly most important action that you can do to control plaque and preserve your oral health.
Be proactive with
your teeth
In addition, using toothpaste that contains fluoride will help strengthen your teeth and the presence of a tartar-control agent will help to inhibit plaque formation. If you are unable to brush your teeth after eating, at least rinse your mouth with water to remove food particles. For those who have neuropathy and are unable to firmly hold a toothbrush, an electric toothbrush may be a wise investment. Whatever you use, replace your toothbrush when you notice wear on the bristles, to ensure that your efforts are effective.
If you have dentures, you are not absolved of good oral hygiene. Ensure that your dentures fit properly to prevent mouth sores that can lead to infections. In addition, remove your dentures at night and thoroughly clean them after meals. Good oral hygiene is truly an example of using an ounce of prevention, so keep your brush and floss handy to preserve that smile!
Susan Sorensen is a registered nurse who does diabetes education in the community and can be reached at www.starladyd
iabetes.com.
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