What Is the Link Between Diabetes and Gum Disease?
Posted on 5/15/2024 by Glen Perio
Diabetes and gum disease are increasingly prevalent conditions among all groups of people. In fact, many studies have been carried out to establish the actual relationship between the two.
According to the American Dental Association, people with diabetes tend to have gum disease (periodontitis). While there is no indication that periodontitis can cause diabetes, the ADA report shows that people with periodontitis have higher blood sugar levels, which worsen complications in diabetes patients. In most cases, having diabetes makes you more susceptible to gum disease. Having gum disease, on the other hand, makes it harder to manage your diabetes.
How Does Diabetes Trigger Gum Disease?
Diabetic patients, especially those with type 2 diabetes, have higher levels of sugar in their saliva than the average person. Over time, the rapidly multiplying bacteria will form plaque, which irritates the gums and potentially leads to periodontitis.
Chronic diabetes weakens the immune system, making it too weak to fight gum infections. This effectively shortens the time it takes for the bacterial plaque to harden into tartar. The tartar often causes gum inflammation, or gingivitis, which progresses to gum disease if left untreated.
Managing Diabetes and Gum Disease
Managing both diabetes and gum disease is daunting but still doable. You need first to establish a strict oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day or after every meal, and floss daily to get rid of remnant bacteria from the teeth and gums.
You also want to maintain healthy blood sugar levels by following the dietary recommendations of your doctor. While at it, avoid smoking. Smoking is a major risk factor for both diabetes and gum disease.
Talk to Our Dentist
If you have gum disease or suspect that you do, seeing a dentist is the best course of action. With early detection, gum disease is treatable, even for diabetes patients. Call us today to schedule a visit to our dental clinic for a checkup or treatment.
About |Dental Implants Glenview, IL | Glen Perio At Glen Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we provide the best services for patients, when it comes to implant and periodontal treatments. Call our experts here! Glen Perio - Dr. Joshua Hassan, 2640 Patriot Blvd. Suite 140, Glenview, IL 60026; 224-488-3392; glenperio.com; 10/17/2024; Associated Words: dental implants Glenview IL;
