Mouth Care and Diabetes



An Increased Risk for Periodontal Disease
When you have diabetes, you are at greater risk for periodontal disease. Any periodontal disease you may develop can be more severe and harder to control. Preventing or controlling periodontal disease requires ongoing care.

What Causes Gum Infections?
Bacteria in your mouth form a sticky, whitish film, called plaque, on teeth. If plaque is not removed daily, it can harden into a rough yellow or brown deposit called tartar.

Tartar is harder to remove from your teeth than plaque.

Bacteria from plaque and tartar can cause swollen, infected, and receding gums. More severe gum and bone disease may then occur.

Prevention
You can do some simple things that can help prevent periodontal disease. Follow these guidelines:

Use Good Oral Hygiene

Brush your teeth after each meal and floss daily. Don't forget to also brush your tongue. Your dentist may suggest aids to help keep your teeth clean.