Diabetes and Periodontal Disease: Making the Connection

Is There a Connection Between Diabetes and Gum Disease?
For the nearly 26 million ( diagnosed and undiagnosed) Americans who have diabetes, many may be surprised to learn about an unexpected complication associated with this condition. Gum disease for example, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the leading causes of tooth loss among adults and is also frequently linked to the control of diabetes.

If I Have Diabetes, am I at Risk for Dental Problems?Yes, you are. If your blood glucose levels are poorly controlled, you are more likely to develop serious gum disease and lose more teeth than non-diabetics.  

How Does Diabetes Affect My Dental Health? The more severe form of gum disease is called periodontitis. When you reach this stage, your gums begin to pull away from your teeth. Pockets form between your teeth and gums. These fill with germs and pus, and deepen. When this happens, you may need gum surgery to save your teeth. If nothing is done, the infection goes on to destroy the bone around your teeth. The teeth may start to move or get loose. Your teeth may fall out or need to be pulled.


Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease:

• Red and swollen gums 
• Gums that tend to bleed easily
• Gums separating from the teeth
• Loose teeth
• Frequent bad breath
• Change in the way your teeth fit together
• Change in the way partials or dentures fit

How Can I Help Prevent Dental Problems Associated with Diabetes?

• First and foremost, control your blood sugar levels. 
• Do not smoke.
• Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet.
• Good oral hygiene (brushing, flossing and using mouth rinse on a regular basis) and regular dental check ups are essential in preventing gum disease.

How will I know if I have mouth problems from diabetes?
Check your mouth for signs of problems from diabetes. If you notice any problems, see your dentist right away. Some of the first signs of gum disease are swollen, tender, or bleeding gums. Sometimes there are no signs of gum disease. You may not know you have it until you have serious damage. Your best defense is to see your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.

And, if you still have additional questions  or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us at 212-689-0024 or email us at appts@newyorkdenturedental.com today. We will take good care of you!


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Resourses: http://clinical.diabetesjournals.org; http://www.diabetes.org; http://dentistry.about.com