There is a genetic link between Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease. When a family has two children with Type 1 diabetes, there is a much higher …
Diabetes and Oral Health Fact Sheet for Patients
The Oral Health and Diabetes Link High blood glucose can cause problems with your teeth and gums Like all infections, dental infections can make your blood glucose go up Sore, swollen, and red gums that bleed when you brush your teeth are a sign of a dental problem called gingivitis Another problem, called periodontitis, happens when gingivitis is left untreated Gum infections have been called the sixth complication of diabetes, because people with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease The severity of periodontal gum disease is also usually greater among persons with diabetes
Oral Hygiene and Regular Dental Care Brush your teeth at least twice a day to prevent gum disease and tooth loss Be sure to brush before you go to sleep Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride Get a new toothbrush at least every 3 months Besides brushing, you need to floss between your teeth each day to help remove plaque, a film that forms on teeth and can cause tooth problems Get your teeth cleaned and checked at your dentists office at least every six months Each time you make a visit, remind your dentist that you have
diabetes See your dentist right away if you have any signs of dental disease, including bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, bleeding or sore gums, red or swollen gums, sore of loose teeth, or trouble chewing
References: US Department of Health and Human Services The Prevention and Treatment Complications of Diabetes: A Guide for Primary Care Practitioners Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Division of Diabetes Translation Atlanta, GA: US Govt, 1991 US Department of Health and Human Services Take Charge of Your Diabetes Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Division of Diabetes Translation Atlanta, GA: US Govt, 1997
