High blood sugar can cause damage to your whole body, including your teeth and gums. Having diabetes can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease even during childhood. If your child has type 1 or type 2 diabetes, then you already know how important it is to keep blood sugar levels under control. High blood sugar increases the supply of sugars and starches in your mouth, contributing to more plaque. The acid in plaque wears away the tooth enamel causing cavities.

The plaque can harden under the gum line if you don’t remove it. Eventually, it can cause gingivitis. Gingivitis is swollen gums that bleed easily. It is an early stage of gum disease. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can become more serious and destroy the soft tissues and bones that support your teeth. Eventually, your teeth can loosen and fall out from this advanced gum disease called periodontitis. If you have diabetes, your periodontitis can be more serious because you body heals slower and doesn’t fight infection as well. Then the infection can raise your blood sugar.

That is why children with diabetes need to take good care of their teeth. Brushing and flossing at least twice a day and seeing a dentist for regular cleanings, is imperative. Don’t scrub your teeth, instead use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and brush a little longer with fluoride toothpaste. You might even want to use an electric toothbrush to help you not to scrub and irritate your gums.

As adults, we understand how important managing a disease and our health can be. However, children tend to struggle with regular hygiene issues, especially when away from home. They want to fit in and not seem different, which may even prevent them from using their medication when necessary. If you are raising a child with diabetes, you have many reasons to be concerned. Not only is there lots of work there are many habits to instill thoroughly before adulthood.



Photo Credit: 2007 Julia Fuller.