Diabetes is on the increase for various reasons and at Brightside Dental, we see many diabetic patients. Most people will have friends or family members who are diabetic. Diabetes Week aims to raise awareness about the life-long health condition suffered by 3.2 million people in the UK. The week, running from 11th – 18th June, encourages diabetes sufferers to look after all aspects of their health. https://www.diabetes.org.uk/Get_involved/Diabetes-Week/ 
For diabetics, oral health problems are even more common than for the average person. Diabetes can cause mouth infections, periodontal (gum) disease, dry mouth and a fungal infection called thrush. It is therefore essential to keep your oral hygiene tip-top.
Ketan Shah from Brightside Dental, recommends following these five dental health tips, to help diabetics keep their mouth healthy, breath fresh and their smile stunning
1.Get a Good Toothbrush
Don’t underestimate the power of a good bristle. Ideal toothbrushes have soft, nylon bristles with rounded ends. Electric toothbrushes also work well. You should change your toothbrush about every 3 months to avoid ineffective, bent bristles that don’t properly clean your teeth.
2. Dump the Junk Foods
Diabetes sufferers will know that eating after an insulin injection is a good way to combat low blood sugar and keep energy levels up. Avoid junk foods, which although they may be quick to eat, can cause unnecessary weight gain and rot your teeth. Trade in high-sugar and high-fat snacks for apples, nuts, and fruit smoothies.
3. Stub Out Those Cigarettes
As if we need any more reasons to quit smoking! This dangerously bad habit increases the risk of serious diabetes complications, including gum disease.
By stubbing out the smokes, you will:
- Prevent yellow teeth.
- Decrease the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease and amputation.
- Improve your blood circulation.
- Potentially improve cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
4. Keep an Eye on Your Mouth
When you brush your teeth, keep an eye out for any strange signs. If you do experience any unusual symptoms, head to your dentist immediately. Look out for the following:
- Loose or wobbly teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Drastic changes in sense of taste
- Dark spots or holes in your teeth
- Bleeding or sore gums
- A sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal
5. Get Regular Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups and hygiene visits are the best way to keep on top of your dental health. Check with your dentist to know how frequently you should visit and make sure you inform them if you have diabetes. The more they know about you, the better advice they can give.
Follow these 5 dental health tips for diabetics
If you suffer from diabetes, don’t let it ruin your teeth and gums. Make sure you follow these 5 dental health tips to keep your teeth white and your breath fresh. You can join in with this year’s Diabetes Week to raise awareness of the condition and ways to help control it by sharing these five management methods.
You can share your stories of courage and hope in the face of diabetes on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #iCan.
