FAQ » The Link Between Diabetes and Periodontal Disease

The Link Between Diabetes and Periodontal Disease

Having diabetes puts you at higher risk for oral infections and gum disease (also called periodontal disease). Why? Because diabetes weakens your mouth's natural ability to fight off germs, including the plaque bacteria that cause gum disease. Harmful bacteria in your mouth thrive on glucose, the kind of sugar that's linked to diabetes. When diabetes isn't properly controlled, high glucose levels in the mouth promote the growth of this bacteria and can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease, accor ding to the American Diabetes Association. Diabetics may also experience diminished salivary flow, which also contributes to tooth decay by drying out the mouth. A lack of moisture in the mouth allows plaque - the sticky film of food residue and bacteria - to build up on your teeth, leading to a greater chance of tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Smoking worsens the problem

If you're a smoker over age 45, and you have diabetes, you are at 20 times greater risk of having gum disease, because smoking further diminishes your body's natural ability to heal itself. Gum disease is not to be taken lightly. In its advanced stage s, gum disease has been linked to serious health problems like heart disease, stroke and premature or low-weight babies. Gum disease can also cause you to lose your teeth, and it will worsen your diabetes.

Warning signs:

 Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
 Gums that are red, swollen and/or tender
 Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
 Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth that won't go away
 Pus between your teeth and gums when you press on that area
 Permanent teeth that feel loose
 Teeth that don't line up like they did in the past

How to stay healthy

Diabetics who effectively control their insulin levels and who receive prompt treatment for any oral infections typically have better oral health and are more likely to avoid gum disease. We'll work with you to make sure your dental appointments are a s short and stress-free as possible, and to schedule your appointments in the morning when your blood glucose levels are best controlled. We may also prescribe a medicated mouth rinse or antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections in your mouth. You will n are a eed to be diligent about your oral hygiene, brushing and flossing daily and seeing us at least twice a year for an exam and a professional cleaning. You will also need to have your triglyceride and cholesterol levels checked regularly; these factors have will n also shown a direct correlation to the development of gum d