Diabetes is a common condition in the United States. According to Centers for Disease Control and Preventionmore than 38 million American adults currently have diabetes.
“Although diabetes is common, many people are unaware of its connection to oral health,” said Douglas Elsesser, program analyst with TRICARE Health Plan’s Dental Program Division. “Uncontrolled diabetes can negatively affect your oral health in many ways.”
If you have diabetes, it’s important to keep it under control. Here are some examples of how diabetes can affect your oral health:
- Decreased saliva production. Saliva helps clean away bacteria and neutralize acids that cause tooth decay. Having less saliva increases your risk for tooth decay.
- Rapid growth of bacteria. High blood sugar levels allow bacteria in the mouth to multiply rapidly. Oral bacteria cause gum disease and other infections.
- Increased plaque buildup. Plaque is a film of bacteria that sticks to the teeth. Uncontrolled diabetes increases plaque build-up. This increases the risk of gum disease.
- Decreased ability to fight infections. People with diabetes are more prone to gingivitis and advanced gingivitis. These infections can destroy gum tissue and bone, leading to tooth loss.
Poor oral health also makes diabetes more difficult to manage. Gum disease causes inflammation, which can raise blood sugar levels, which is a concern for people with diabetes.
To take good care of your oral health, you can adopt these practices:
- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.
- Seek treatment immediately if you develop signs of gingivitis. Early signs of gingivitis include swollen gums, gums that bleed easily, and bad breath that doesn’t go away.
- Coordinate treatment with your dentist and physician.
- Stop smoking and using tobacco.
- Limit the amount of sugar you eat and drink.
- Chew sugar-free gum to increase saliva flow.
Wondering how TRICARE covers dental care? Dental coverage is separate from TRICARE health plan coverage. Yours dental coverage options based on who you are:
If you are enrolled in TDP, you may be eligible for the TDP Wellness Program. The TDP Wellness Plan offers extended coverage at no extra cost to people with diabetes and certain other health conditions. This coverage includes additional cleanings, fluoride treatments and certain gum surgery procedures. If you have diabetes, be sure to enroll in the TDP Wellness Program through TDP contractor United Concordia. To register, go to United Concordia TDP website and log in to my account.
No matter what other health conditions you have, it’s important to take good care of your oral health. check it TRICARE Dental Program Health issues newsletter for more oral health tips.
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