Almost 64.7 million adults in the U.S suffer from some form of periodontal disease, i.e., nearly 50 percent of the adult population. Moreover, it’s one of the most prevalent diseases around the globe. Those who don’t know, periodontal (gum) diseases attack gums and the teeth supporting bone. It’s also a leading culprit of tooth loss in adults.That being said, oral health is closely linked to the overall wellbeing of your body. This post explores the relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes.
How Is Diabetes Linked to Periodontal Disease?
People who have diabetes have a greater risk of developing periodontal disease. Ineffective blood sugar management can spark concerns with the nerves, heart, eyes, kidneys, blood vessels, and feet – your gums are no exemption.
How Diabetes Affects Your Gums?
Elevated blood sugar levels can impair blood vessels and curb the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the gums, increasing the likelihood of infection in the teeth supporting bone and gums.
Similarly, uncontrolled blood sugar levels also lead to mounting glucose levels in the saliva, thereby producing a breeding ground for bacteria – the prime trigger of tooth decay and periodontal disease.
How Periodontal Disease Effects Diabetic People?
In turn, severe periodontal disease can negatively affect how your body controls blood sugar. This might prompt a person who has diabetes to the threat of long-term complications instigated by diabetes. Gum inflammation resulting from a periodontal infection is the body’s defense system fighting back. However, it also disturbs blood sugar management.
In a nutshell, periodontal disease and diabetes are connected in both directions.
Action To Take
Dental professionals at Periodontal Associates recommend patients to inform their dental care providers about their diabetes diagnosis or medication and should undergo comprehensive dental inspection.
Patients who have diabetes must ideally visit a dentist for routine checkups, particularly to ensure their gum’s health. If your dental care provider finds any periodontal disease signs, they can instantly initiate management and treatment procedures.
Final Thought
Effective periodontal disease treatment and management for diabetic people is just as possible as with people without diabetes. So, if you want to ensure a happy gum and overall health wellbeing, request an appointment with Dr. Eshraghi by calling at (503) 620-2807.
