The Link between Diabetes and Gum Disease

The Link between Diabetes and Gum Disease

Diabetes is a number of diseases that involves problem with the hormone insulin. This happens when the pancreas produces very little or no insulin, or when the body does not respond appropriately to insulin. Patients diagnosed with diabetes are highly prone to develop periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the gums and bones that hold the teeth in proper place.

There is a high risk for gum problems if blood sugar is not controlled or high levels of glucose in the blood because uncontrolled diabetes weakens white blood cells, which are the body’s main defense against bacterial infections that can occur in the mouth. All people have more tiny bacteria living in their mouth now than there are people on this planet. If they make their home in your gums, you can end up with periodontal disease.

Dental Consideration:

It is important to look after your oral health and control your blood glucose levels to prevent gum disease. It involves teamwork involving your dentist and your physician to be up-to-date with your diabetic condition to work together in lowering your sugar level. Daily brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups and good blood glucose control are the best defense against the oral complications of diabetes.