Listen to Episode 36 of The Diabetic Toolbox Podcast: The Connection Between Your Dental Hygiene and Protecting Your Overall Health
Oral hygiene does more than give you a pretty smile and fresh breath. Healthy teeth and gums can help prevent serious health issues like diabetes and heart conditions. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, your general dentist may refer you to gum specialists because your mouth reveals so much about your body. For example, more than 90% of people with heart conditions also have gum infections and inflammation called periodontitis. Let’s discuss why keeping your mouth in top shape is so important.
Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene
- Take care of your heart. The bacteria in your mouth can travel through your bloodstream to your heart. Keeping your gums free of inflammation lowers your heart attack and stroke risk.
- Manage diabetes. The American Dental Association has concluded that the link between diabetes and periodontitis is undeniable. Inflammation interferes with your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, and high blood sugar encourages inflammation.
- Reduce respiratory infections. It is a short path from your mouth to your lungs. Eliminating oral bacteria makes pneumonia and other infections less likely.
- Strengthen your bones. Sturdy teeth, bones, and joints go together. A nutritious diet fights cavities, osteoporosis, and arthritis.
How to Practice Good Oral Hygiene
- Upgrade your brushing skills. Most experts recommend brushing 2 or 3 times a day. Aim for 2 minutes for each session so you cover all surfaces. Try starting in a different section of your mouth each time to make it more interesting.
- Use fluoride toothpaste. You see all kinds of products on your drugstore shelves, but ordinary fluoride toothpaste is the most effective at fighting cavities. It is also gentler than whitening formulas.
- Replace your toothbrush. Dentists suggest buying a new toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. Soft bristles and a comfortable size may also help you to brush well.
- Floss daily. Flossing is another daily requirement. Try waxed floss if you struggle between tight teeth or dental work. Follow up with an antimicrobial mouthwash for extra protection.
- Select food carefully. Sugary and acidic foods wear down your teeth faster. It is another good reason to limit the empty calories contained in candy, cookies, and soft drinks. Remember that even healthy items can be hard on your teeth. That includes fruit juices and white wine.
- Quit smoking. Using tobacco irritates the tissue in your mouth. It can also speed up tooth loss and cause certain cancers. Many people require more than one attempt to quit successfully, so keep trying. Combining several methods may help you to become permanently smoke-free.
See your dentist. More than 90% of systemic conditions like diabetes produce oral symptoms. In addition to teaching you how to care for your teeth and gums, your dentist can help identify issues that need prompt medical treatment. Brush, floss, and visit your dentist at least twice a year. What is good for your teeth and gums is suitable for your whole body. You will be protecting your smile and overall health.
With Peace & Love,
Renee
Resources:
Download your copy of our book for the month, You Are Stronger Than You Think: Affirmations to Heal Your Mind, Body, & Spirit: this fillable eBook will help you to promote positive thinking and a healthier mindset, just what you need to manage your diabetes successfully.
Achieve a weight loss of eight pounds in 30 days using the Diabetes Walking Kit. Find more information here: https://buff.ly/31HlCrH
Shop at Renee and Rubys and enjoy a 20% discount on your entire purchase. Afterpay and 30-day free returns are available. Learn more at https://buff.ly/31HlCrH
If you want support, accountability, additional training, weekly recipes, and movement challenges, join The Diabetic Toolbox private Facebook Group; answer the three entry questions to become a member.
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