How Diabetes and Periodontal Disease is Connected

1. How Diabetes and Periodontal Disease is Connected buckheaddentistry.jimdo.com It has been known for quite some time that oral health may be an important indicator for the body’s overall health. Some new research is now shedding new light to suggest that gum disease and developing diabetes really does have a connection, though it is still not clear which one comes first. This new research from Harvard University and published in the publication, Diabetes Care, has linked poor gum health to the body’s serious health problems. For instance, poor gum and periodontal health has now been connected to pancreatic cancer, heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even pregnancy problems. While genetics and tobacco use may play a minor role, gum disease can definitely be linked to some of the body’s health problems. Gum disease and diabetes People without diabetes may also get gum disease, but those patients with diabetes increases the chance of accelerating the development of periodontal disease especially when diabetes is poorly managed. The case is the same for both adults and children. Since diabetes may cause very high abnormal levels of blood glucose, this also causes higher than normal levels of glucose in the saliva and this creates a fertile breeding ground for bacteria and this raises the risk of gum disease and dental decay. What are the usual symptoms of gum disease? Bleeding in mouth stimulated by brushing or flossing. Changed bit or jaw alignment. Gums are receded. Loose teeth. Persistent halitosis or bad breath. Presence of pus between teeth or gums. Red, swollen, and tender gums. What periodontal disease could a person get if they have diabetes? Gingivitis – This is the mildest type of gum disease. It is characterized by tender, red, and swollen gums. This causes the gums to bleed easily during brushing and flossing. This gum disease can be averted with proper home dental health care and other advice from the dentist.

2. Mild Periodontitis – When Gingivitis goes untreated it may lead to periodontitis. At this stage the disease will start to erode the bone around the tooth. To prevent the disease from advancing, the patient needs to seek prompt dental attention. Severe Periodontitis – This is the advanced stage of the mild version and is characterized by increased bone and tissue loss around the teeth. Factors from diabetes that increases the risk for gum disease Abnormally high blood glucose levels because of diabetes. Insufficient oral care and hygiene. Viral infections. Certain diabetic medications including some blood pressure medications. Having additional conditions as a result of diabetes that may affect immunity such as Addison’s disease. If a patient with diabetes should have any symptoms of gum disease, a dentist should be quickly consulted to provide a diagnosis and advice on treating the gum disease. Usually if the gum disease is in its early stage then all that will be involved is a thorough general teeth cleaning by the dentist and a stronger oral hygiene program at home. Better management of blood sugar levels may also be advised. You can ask buckhead dental professionals for further information about the connection of diabetes and periodontal disease.