Diabetes is a common disease, so if you don’t have it, you are likely to know someone who does. Approximately 29.1 million people, or about 9.3% of Americans are diabetic. Diabetes affects your body’s ability to produce insulin, and it can be linked to a variety of issues throughout the body, including oral health problems. Fortunately, by using your dental benefits, you can keep your smile in good health! Continue reading to learn about the link between diabetes and oral health, and how your dental benefits can help.
How Are Diabetes and Oral Health Related?
People who have diabetes are at increased risk of developing gum disease. Poor blood sugar affects your body’s ability to fight off infections, including those that occur in the mouth. If you develop gum disease, it is much more difficult for your body to fight off. Advanced periodontal disease can cause your blood sugar levels to rise, ultimately making it harder to keep your diabetes under control. Both conditions can make the other one serious over time.
How Can You Prevent Gum Disease?
For diabetics, seeing a dentist is especially essential because of their heightened risk of infections. At least every six months, your dentist needs to examine your smile and pick up on oral health issues before they get out of control. The good news is that regular dental visits are often mostly or completely covered by dental insurance!
How Can You Use Your Dental Benefits to Your Advantage?
Dental insurance includes partial coverage for both gum disease and restorations. However, it is best to take advantage of preventive services to prevent the need for restorative treatments. Every plan looks a little bit different, but here is what a typical plan may look like:
- 100% coverage on preventive services (cleanings, checkups, routine X-rays, etc.).
- 80% coverage on minor preventive services (dental fillings, scaling & root planing, etc.).
- 50% coverage on major preventive services (dental crowns, dentures, etc.).
How Else Can You Prevent Gum Disease?
In addition to seeing your dentist, here are some steps you should take at home:
- Floss Daily: You should floss every day to remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth and beneath the gumline.
- Brush Your Teeth & Gums: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, thoroughly brush your teeth, gumline, and gum twice every day.
- Clean Your Tongue: Your tongue can also collect plaque and bacteria. Use a toothbrush or tongue scraper to clean your tongue in addition to brushing your teeth.
- Limit Sugar: Having too many sugary foods and beverages leads to additional plaque and bacteria in the mouth.
By managing your diabetes through healthy lifestyle habits and utilizing your dental insurance benefits, you can keep your gums in good shape!
About the Author
Dr. Navkiran Dhillon has been working in the field for nearly two decades! She first received her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in India before moving to the United States and earning her Doctor of Dental Medicine from Boston University, graduating with high honors. Currently, she is a proud member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and the Massachusetts Dental Society. To learn more about dental insurance or to schedule an appointment at her office in Ware, visit her website or call (413) 967-7140.