November is Diabetes Awareness Month. It is a time for us to focus on diabetes and how it can be treated and prevented. Most of us know someone who is living with diabetes, or maybe you are living with this condition. In either case, it is important to understand this serious condition because it affects every part of your body, from head to toe. Diabetes also affects your oral health, which is why we’ve put together a list of healthy habits that are important for us all, but are especially important for patients who are living with diabetes.
Flossing Twice Per Day – One of the greatest risks for diabetic patients is a risk of gum disease. Flossing is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease because the floss removes harmful bacteria from between your teeth and around the gum line. Flossing twice each day will minimize your exposure to that harmful bacteria.
Antiseptic Rinse – There are a few different kinds of mouth rinse, but only rinses with an antiseptic or antibacterial label are going to actually get rid of the harmful bacteria that is in your mouth. We recommend that diabetic patients use this type of rinse at least once per day.
Routine Cleanings and Exams – Another concern for diabetic patients is an increased risk of tooth decay due to symptoms caused by prescription medications. Keeping routine appointments will protect you from decay as well as gum disease because we will be able to keep your mouth clean and catch signs of a problem before it begins!
Diabetic patients have a lot going on, and a lot to take care of! Oral health can be a simple matter with a few extra minutes of preventive care each day. Contact us today to set up your next appointment, and let us know how we can help you come up with a plan for fantastic oral health care. We can’t wait to see you soon!
