Diabetes Self-Management Articles

Diabetes raises the risk of gum disease and other dental problems, and gum disease or oral surgery can make blood glucose more difficult to control. For tips on taking good care of your teeth and gums and preventing problems, check out the articles below.


Choosing Dental Care by Shirley Gutkowski, R.D.H., B.S.D.H.

For years you’ve visited the same dental office for your regular cleanings and the occasional cavity. You’ve had few complaints about your care—certainly none big enough to merit changing dentists. But recently you’ve moved…


Diabetes and Oral Health by Ira B. Lamster, DDS, MMSc

A healthy mouth is essential for healthy living. The mouth is where digestion begins when chewing mixes food with saliva. A healthy mouth is also important for communication and social interaction, and overall personal appearance is dramatically affected by one’s smile. Everyone needs to pay attention to oral health. This is particularly true for people living with diabetes…


Disease, Treatment, and Oral Health by Shirley Gutkowski, RDH, BSDH

Many people associate tooth decay and periodontal disease with too much candy and not enough brushing and flossing. If only it were that simple. While it’s true that food and personal oral hygiene have a role in oral health, there are many other…


Keeping Your Mouth Squeaky Clean by Shirley Gutkowski, RDH, BSDH

Periodontal (gum) disease has been called the sixth complication of diabetes (in addition to eye, kidney, nerve, foot, and cardiovascular complications) because so many people with diabetes have it. Having high blood glucose raises the risk of developing periodontal disease, and periodontal disease tends to raise blood glucose levels. So clearly, making an effort to brush, floss, and have regular dental checkups is important when you have diabetes…


Nutrition For Dental Health by Julie Lichty Balay, MS, RD

The mouth has been called a mirror of health, and a healthy mouth is indeed a pleasant sight to see in the mirror. It is not news to anyone that proper nutrition is an important component of overall health and well-being, but you may not know that food choices affect oral health in more ways than just preventing cavities…

Also inside: Nutrients That Promote Oral Health

Treating Dental Sensitivity by Shirley Gutkowski, RDH, BSDH, FACE

Does ice cream give your teeth a jolt? What about a hot cup of coffee? These reactions are typical for people with dental sensitivity, which might be more accurately described as hypersensitivity…

Also inside: Who's Who at the Dentist's Office

Statements and opinions expressed on this Web site are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the publishers or advertisers. The information provided on this Web site should not be construed as medical instruction. Consult appropriate health-care professionals before taking action based on this information.

What is the one of the most important steps you can take for your eyes? Get tip


When Good Management Efforts Go Wrong
Sometimes the best of intentions leads to the worst of outcomes. Here’s a chance to learn from the mistakes of others.

Insulin Resistance: What It Is and Why It Matters
Most people with Type 2 diabetes and some with Type 1 have insulin resistance. In either case, it makes blood glucose control more difficult.

How Much Do You Know About Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
This common problem often responds well to healthy lifestyle measures: exercise, stress reduction, and careful food choices.

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