Healthy Mouth, Health Body: Link Between Gum Disease and Diabetes

November 30, 2015

Gum (periodontal) disease is a relatively common condition that millions of U.S. adults are currently dealing with in one form or another. It can show up in basic inflammation of the gums or, in severe cases, result in critical damage to the bone supporting the teeth and the surrounding soft tissue. Chewing can be painful and teeth can be lost as a result.

Infection Predisposition

One of the gum disease dangers is diabetes: a serious, long-term condition that affects an estimated 23.6 million U.S. residents. People who have diabetes are often less able to stave off infections, including gum infections. Some research has shown a link between uncontrolled diabetes and periodontal disease, implying that if gum disease is untreated, blood sugar levels are more difficult to control. Both afflictions cause inflammation throughout the entire body. When blood vessels are inflamed, small scars develop and plaque obstructs the vessels. These impediments are correlated with heart disease, strokes, and kidney disease, all of which are major diabetes complications.

Blood Sugar Maintenance

Those who have diabetes and are unable to manage blood sugar levels are more prone to dealing with gum disease and when it comes, the cases are generally more severe. In addition, these patients lose more teeth. High glucose levels in the fluids of your mouth may encourage germ growth and make you predisposed to gum disease. If you are dealing with one or both of these issues, it is crucial to:

• Work at maintaining good blood glucose levels
• Brush and floss daily
• See your dentist regularly
• Avoid smoking
• Remove and clean dentures daily, if worn

Other oral concerns linked to diabetes are dry mouth, which can lead to soreness, ulcers, cavities and infections, and thrush, a fungal infection. If you are dealing with diabetes and/or periodontal disease, call the office of Dr. Andrew M. Satlin, a leading periodontist in Los Angeles, CA today at (310) 907-5912. Our staff is on hand to assist you in all your periodontal needs.

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