Sri Murugan De Chemist

• Red, swollen or tender gums

• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth

• Pus between the teeth and gums when the gums are pressed

• Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth

• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating

• Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Prevention of oral problems in people with diabetes:

Good blood glucose control is the key to controlling and preventing mouth problems. People with poor blood glucose control get gum disease more often and more severely than people whose diabetes is well controlled.

People with diabetes should follow certain important instructions regarding oral health like:

• Watching out for signs and symptoms of oral disease and contacting the dental office immediately when the problem arises.

• Practicing good oral hygiene at home; following physician’s instructions regarding diet and medications and scheduling regular dental checkups.

• Keeping blood sugar level as close to normal as possible.

• Br inging to the dentist a list of all the names and dosages of all medicines they are taking. The dentist would need to know this information to prescribe medicines least likely to interfere with the medicines they are already taking. If a major infection is being treated, insulin dose (for those taking insulin) might need to be adjusted.

• Postponing non-emergency dental procedures if blood sugar is not in good control. However, acute infections (infections that develop quickly) such as abscesses should be treated rightaway.

• Keeping in mind that healing might take longer in people with diabetes, and following dentist’s post treatment instructions closely.

• Calling an orthodontist immediately if a wire or bracket (such as those in braces) cuts tongue or mouth.

• Getting their teeth and gums cleaned and checked by a dentist twice a year.

• Preventing plaque build-up on teeth by using dental floss at least once a day.

• Brushing teeth after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Removing and cleaning the dentures daily if the patient is using them.

Good healthcare practices for people with diabetes:

• Quitting smoking as smokers have higher levels of gum disease caused by poor blood circulation in the tissues around their teeth. People with diabetes who smoke have an even greater chance of having severe gum problems than non-smokers and non-diabetics.

• Looking out for early signs of gum disease.

• Maintaining a healthy eating plan and taking prescribed medications as per the diabetologist.

• Brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft brush, and using dental floss everyday.

• Removing dentures at night and cleaning them daily.

• Visiting a dentist or other oral health professional regularly.

Diabetes Education Initiative by Parivartan Foundation!