Diabetes and Gum Disease: A Dangerous Mix

November 30, 2015

If you’ve been experiencing pain in your teeth or have noticed small traces of red from bleeding gums on your toothbrush in the morning, the possibility exists that you could be experiencing gum disease. Such a condition is nothing to take lightly, for it can end up producing problems far greater than simple discomfort in your mouth. In fact, your dentist in Largo, FL will tell you that clinical researchers are beginning to discover that gum disease dangers pose the potential for even greater risks to your overall health.

For many years, it was believed that the effects of gum and periodontal disease were limited to your teeth, mouth, and jaw. Yet in recent years, evidence has begun to suggest that the presence of this condition could potentially be a sign of other underlying health problems. This has led to the discovery of a link between gum disease and a much more debilitating condition: diabetes.

How Are Gum Disease and Diabetes Linked?

It’s believed that 29.1 million Americans suffer from diabetes, and if the numbers are to be believed, these people are at much greater risk of developing gum disease. Why? Because many of the conditions associated with diabetes can contribute the development of problems such as gingivitis and periodontitis. These can include:

• Bacterial development: The sugar closely linked to diabetes is glucose. High levels of glucose set the stage for exponential bacterial growth. This allows germs to grow unabated, particularly in the mouth.
• Elevated blood sugar levels: Diabetic patients who have not maintained their blood sugar levels well exhibit a much higher occurrence of gum disease, and the impact that it has on their oral health is often greater.
• Blood vessel constriction: The thickening of blood vessels that is so often inherent with diabetes can result in fewer nutrients and less oxygen being delivered to the mouth, which increases the risk of infection.

Given the many problems that gum disease can introduce into your life, you simply cannot afford to not seek treatment for it. Fortunately, we here at Largo Laser Dentistry are here to help. Dr. Carreiro can offer you many options to help treat and even reverse the effects of gum and periodontal disease. To learn more about combating this condition, call to schedule an appointment with us today.

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