You may not be aware, but your toothbrush, floss and regular dental visits are important ‘tools’ to help manage your diabetes and reduce health risks. Diabetes and higher blood sugar levels can affect the power of our immune system, weakening our ability to fight infections. There is a relationship between obesity, insulin resistance and periodontal disease in adults, and recent studies suggest this occurs in children as well.
Gum disease starts early: Children and teens with diabetes are at a greater risk than those without diabetes. Gingivitis, an early form of gum disease, can cause bleeding, red or swollen gums, bad breath, and loose teeth. Periodontitis, a later form, can lead to tooth loss and painful chewing. Higher blood sugar levels may be related to the worsening of gum disease, and gum disease is an infection that can raise blood sugar levels, making control of diabetes harder to achieve!
If you don’t brush and floss daily, take steps to build this into your daily routine. It could be as important as testing your blood sugar and taking medications daily. Check with your dental insurer as many offer dental cleaning 3 times per year for those with diabetes.
http://portlandtribune.com/pt-insiders/333009-212864-tools-to-reduce-diabetes-related-risks-toothbrush-floss-and-regular-dental-care
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