Gum disease and diabetes are two chronic conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. While they may seem unrelated, they are actually closely connected. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition that affects the gums and surrounding tissues of the teeth. Diabetes, on the other hand, is a metabolic disorder that affects the body’s ability to process blood sugar.
Here are the top 5 things you should know about the relationship between gum disease and diabetes:
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Consumption of excessive sugar increases periodontal and diabetic symptoms
Sugar is a major culprit when it comes to both gum disease and diabetes. When you consume foods high in sugar and starch, the bacteria in your mouth feed on these substances and produce acid. This acid can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities. Over time, the bacteria can also infect the gums, leading to periodontal disease.
For people with diabetes, consuming too much sugar can cause blood sugar levels to spike. This can lead to a host of complications, including nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision problems. Therefore, it’s important for people with diabetes to limit their sugar intake and maintain good oral hygiene to prevent both gum disease and diabetic complications.
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Poorly controlled diabetes increases the chances of contracting periodontal diseases
If you have diabetes, you are more likely to develop gum disease. This is because high blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. When bacteria build up in the mouth, they can cause inflammation and infection in the gums.
Poorly controlled diabetes can also cause blood vessels to thicken, which can reduce the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the gums. This can make it harder for the body to heal from infections and can lead to more severe forms of gum disease.
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Periodontal disease can influence blood sugar levels
Just as diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease, gum disease can also make it harder to control blood sugar levels. When you have gum disease, your body’s immune system is constantly fighting off infection. This can cause inflammation throughout the body, which can interfere with the way insulin works and make it harder to regulate blood sugar levels.
In fact, studies have shown that people with severe gum disease are more likely to have higher blood sugar levels than those with healthy gums. Therefore, it’s important for people with diabetes to take good care of their oral health to help keep their blood sugar levels under control.
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Periodontal diseases enhance the risk of kidney and cardiovascular complications
People with both diabetes and gum disease are at a higher risk of developing complications such as kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. This is because the inflammation caused by gum disease can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots.
In addition, bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, including the heart and kidneys. This can cause inflammation and damage to these organs over time.
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Your dentist can help
The good news is that gum disease is treatable, and treating it can help reduce the risk of diabetic complications. Your dentist can perform a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planning to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This can help reduce inflammation and allow the gums to heal.
Bottom line
If you have diabetes, it’s important to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. At Bayswater Dentist, we understand the unique needs of patients with diabetes and can provide personalized care to help keep your mouth healthy. Our experienced team of dental professionals can work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and helps you manage both your diabetes and your oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier mouth and body.