Last Updated on September 16, 2024
Nearly 30 million Americans suffer from diabetes. Almost 65 million Americans have periodontal disease. Recent studies have suggested that there is a two-way connection between diabetes and periodontal (gum) disease. Patients with gum disease have increased risk of other diabetic complications and patients with diabetes are more prone to developing gum disease.
How Periodontal Disease Affects Diabetes
Gum disease triggers inflammation in your body, which makes it harder to control blood sugar for diabetic patients. Severe periodontal disease can raise blood sugar levels, making it more challenging to maintain or regain good control. Additionally, elevated blood sugar increases the risk of other diabetic complications.
Diabetes and Its Role in Periodontal Disease
Diabetic patients tend to experience more infections, especially when their diabetes is not well controlled. If you struggle with blood sugar control, you are more likely to develop gum disease compared to those with well-managed diabetes. Poorly controlled diabetes often leads to more severe cases of gum disease, increasing the likelihood of tooth loss.
Additional Oral Health Issues for Diabetics
Besides blood sugar control, diabetes includes a number of other health complications. Diabetic patients are more prone to other oral health issues, such as dry mouth or thrush (a fungal infection of the mouth). Reduced saliva production or infection in the mouth can increase risks of developing periodontal disease as well.
The Impact of Smoking on Gum Disease and Diabetes
Smoking can escalate these risks even further. Studies have shown that smokers are 5 times more likely than non-smokers to develop gum disease, overall. Diabetic smokers age 45 or older have been found to be 20 times more likely to develop severe gum disease.
Managing the Periodontal Disease and Diabetes Connection
When you control your diabetes and blood sugar well, you face no greater risk of periodontal disease or other oral health complications than patients without diabetes. If you have diabetes, work closely with your doctor to manage your blood sugar and prevent these additional health risks.
Conclusion
Understanding the periodontal disease and diabetes connection is vital to managing both conditions effectively. By keeping your blood sugar under control and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can minimize the risks of gum disease and other health complications. Always inform your dentist about your diabetes status, and work together to ensure your oral health remains a priority. Contact our office today to discuss any concerns and schedule an appointment.