It is of course important that all children should visit their dentist regularly, but it is especially important that children with diabetes should see a dentist at least every six months. Infections of the teeth or gums may lead to an upset in the state of their diabetes, and painful teeth or gums may make it harder for them to take a properly balanced diet. The old belief that the milk teeth do not matter as they will be replaced by the second permanent teeth is now known to be unsound. Quite apart from the misery that the aching tooth may cause, the second dentition may be affected by disease of the milk teeth, and they may also grow out of proper alignment if the milk teeth are removed before they are due to be naturally shed. Your dentist will also discuss with you the best methods for the care of your child’s teeth and the best ways to prevent dental caries or ‘holes’ developing. Teeth should be brushed properly, and after each meal if possible. Ask your child’s dentist to demonstrate the best method of brushing. It is better to end the meal with a piece of raw fruit or raw vegetable rather than starchy food, as the starch tends to stick between the teeth, where it ferments and leads to caries.
If your child is under the age of 12 years and you live in an area where the water supply is deficient in fluoride, so that the risk of dental caries is increased, you may give him a fluoride tablet each day. It will not affect the diabetes in any way, and will reduce the risk of tooth decay.
When arranging a dental appointment it is best to have it soon after the meal so that there is little chance of a hypo reaction.
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