Can Healthy Teeth Lower Blood Sugar?

More than 30 million people in the United States suffer from diabetes. Up to 95 percent of diabetes cases are type 2 diabetes. The condition occurs when the body stops making enough insulin or cannot use the insulin it makes. The result is high blood sugar, which can have serious health consequences if not managed. There are many ways to manage the blood sugar of older adults with diabetes, and a new study says that taking care of their teeth could be one of them.

Deep Cleaning May Lower Blood Sugar

Researchers in Spain conducted a study that involved 90 people with type 2 diabetes. The participants were divided into two groups. One group received instructions for taking care of their mouths and also underwent deep dental cleaning procedures that cleaned away tartar and plaque from below the gum line. The other group also received oral health instructions and a dental cleaning, but not below the gum line. The study went on for six months. At the end, the scientists found that the group who underwent deep dental cleaning had significant improvements in their blood sugar levels.

Oral Health Tips for Seniors

There are many reasons an older adult might neglect their teeth. Seniors with cognitive impairments might simply forget to brush, or they may not remember how to brush. Others may simply feel like keeping their teeth clean just isn’t important anymore. Because good oral health is important not just for those with diabetes, seniors should be encouraged to keep up good dental habits, such as:

Brushing twice daily using a toothpaste that contains fluoride.

• Daily flossing.
• Using an antiseptic mouth wash one or two times a day.
• See the dentist on a regular basis.
• Dementia and Oral Health

Older adults with dementia may need assistance with brushing their teeth. There are a couple of ways you or a senior care provider can help. One way is to model the behavior for them. Give the person a toothbrush that has toothpaste on it. Then, place your hand over theirs and help them get started with the motion of brushing. You can also try breaking the task down into steps and giving oral instructions. For example, you might start by saying, “Pick up your toothbrush. Put toothpaste on it.” 

Even if your aging relative doesn’t have dementia, a senior care provider can help them to practice better oral health. A senior care provider can remind them to brush their teeth. Senior care providers can also drive older adults to the dentist or remind them of upcoming dental appointments.

Sources

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320806.php

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/adults-over-60/concerns

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-care-seniors#1

https://www.caregiver.org/dental-care-dementia

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Senior Care in Delray Beach, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At BrightStar Care Today! 561-921-0550.