Blog | November 25, 2014
Op-ed on the Connection between Oral Health and Diabetes

It’s National Diabetes Month. On November 23rd, the Yakima Herald-Republic featured an op-ed by Diane Patterson on the importance of oral health care for people with diabetes.  Check it out: http://www.yakimaherald.com/opinion/latestoped/2666463-8/diabetes-and-dental-issues-tied-together

 

Did you know that gum disease can make it harder to manage diabetes?

If you have diabetes you are twice as likely to develop gum disease, and gum disease makes it more difficult to control blood sugar.

Keep your mouth clean and healthy:

• Brush twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste 
• Floss every day
• Use a mouth rinse with fluoride
• Drink fluoridated water instead of sugary drinks

Eat a well-balanced diet:

• Choose healthy snacks, like low-fat cheese, fresh fruit, vegetables, and nuts

Get regular dental checkups as recommended by the American Diabetes Association.

Diabetes can lead to other problems in your mouth:

Some diabetes medications can cause dry mouth, a condition that can make it hard to eat, taste, swallow, or even talk. Dry mouth can quickly lead to tooth decay, especially at the gum line. Be sure to tell your dentist or physician if you have dry mouth.