Did you know that periodontal (gum) disease is considered a major complication of diabetes? Those who suffer from diabetes are more susceptible to infection, and gum disease is an inflammatory response to oral infection. These two conditions can feed off each other, creating a vicious cycle.
Breaking Down Gum Disease
Let’s cover the basics of periodontal disease aka gum disease. Firstly, “periodontal” is defined as “around the tooth”. Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth and also jawbone. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and can often be treated and reversed. When the condition progresses, it turns into periodontitis. Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of the gum disease, causing deep pockets and gum recession. The most severe type is aggressive periodontitis, which causes rapid loss of gum attachment in addition to bone loss.
Deciphering Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease where the pancreas cannot produce the right amount of insulin, or the body is unable to process blood sugar (glucose). Type 1 diabetics do not produce any or enough insulin, and Type 2 diabetics are unable to regulate their insulin. Both forms of the disease can lead to serious complications if not properly treated.
Here are some common symptoms of diabetes:
- blurred vision
- dark patches of skin
- excessive thirst and drinking
- fatigue
- frequent urination
- increased appetite
- slow-healing cuts/sores
- weight gain or loss
The Two-Way Street
Periodontal Disease and diabetes are an ugly match. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar. Severe periodontal disease can increase blood sugar, contributing to increased periods of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar. This puts people with diabetes at increased risk for diabetic complications.
Bacteria from a bad oral infection can enter the bloodstream causing blood sugar levels to rise. Additionally, bacteria thrive on sugars such as glucose, and if diabetes isn’t properly controlled, high glucose levels can worsen gum disease.
Diabetics have thickened blood vessels, which makes it more difficult for the body to deliver nutrients and remove wastes. This results in harmful waste left in the mouth that can breakdown gum tissue and cause infection.
If diabetes spirals out of control, it can also lead to other oral conditions such as dry mouth, cavities, and delayed healing of oral wounds.
Maintenance is Key
It’s vital that both periodontal disease and diabetes are controlled. Doing so consists of a few steps. Your healthcare provider and dentist should both be well informed of your diagnoses of the two conditions as well as their severity. Diabetes requires maintaining normal blood sugar levels through insulin therapy and diet. Periodontal disease requires frequent examinations of the mouth and dental treatments such as deep cleanings and sometimes periodontal surgery.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.