Diabetes can affect many parts of the body, including the gums and the supporting tissues of the teeth. In fact, people living with diabetes may be at a higher risk of periodontal (gum) disease, particularly if their blood sugar is not well managed and remains above the target range. Gum disease may also make it more difficult for someone with diabetes to control their blood sugar levels. This creates a relationship between oral health and general health that can be difficult to manage without proper care. Being aware of this two-way link between gum disease and blood sugar can help patients with diabetes spot signs of gum disease and seek periodontal treatment sooner rather than later.
Resource: diabetes.org
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What Are Diabetes and Periodontal Disease?
Diabetes is a disease that affects how the body uses glucose. High blood sugar levels can influence your blood vessels, immune response, and healing, and how well your body fights infection. Periodontal (gum) disease is a progressive condition affecting your gums and the supporting structures of your teeth, starting with redness, swelling, and bleeding gums and progressing to damage and loss of supporting bone and tissue. Periodontitis cannot be reversed, but it can be treated. Advanced periodontitis can cause gum recession, loose teeth, changes in the bite, and, without treatment, tooth loss.
Resource: my. clevelandclinic.org
How Does Diabetes Affect Gum Health?
People with diabetes may have trouble managing an oral infection. High blood sugar may impair white blood cells, which fight infection, and delay healing. Additionally, it can reduce saliva production, leaving your mouth more susceptible to tooth decay and infection. Plaque forms on the teeth and at the gum line. The plaque must be removed daily by brushing and flossing. Regular periodontal exams help dental teams assess the risk of gum disease and identify inflammation, infection, recession, or bone loss.
Can Gum Disease Affect Blood Sugar?
Yes, in the other direction. Advanced periodontal disease may make it more difficult to manage diabetes because gum disease causes chronic inflammation, which can affect how well your body utilizes glucose. Gum disease may also affect how the body uses insulin. Treating the gum disease may help lower your blood sugar and improve hemoglobin A1C. Results are not the same for everyone. Periodontal treatment is not a substitute for medical treatment of diabetes.
Signs of Gum Disease to Watch For
See your dentist or periodontist if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Gums that bleed while brushing or flossing.
- Red, swollen, or tender gums.
- Gums that have receded away from the teeth.
- Loose teeth or tooth sensitivity.
- Pain in your gums.
- Persistent bad breath.
- Pus between the teeth and gums.
- Sores or a burning sensation in your mouth.
Patients with diabetes should report oral changes promptly, even when pain is mild or absent.
How to Prevent Gum Disease If You Have Diabetes
Good oral hygiene and regular medical care can help lower the risk of gum disease and related complications. Take the following steps to protect your teeth and gums:
- Provide blood sugar readings from the past three months if requested.
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily or use an interdental cleaning device recommended by your dental team.
- Follow the blood sugar management plan recommended by your physician.
- Attend regular medical exams and dental follow-up appointments.
- Tell your dental team that you have diabetes.
- Bring a current list of all medications and supplements to each dental appointment.
- Share your most recent hemoglobin A1C level.
Periodontal Exams in Colorado Springs
Regular periodontal exams help your dental team assess your risk of gum disease and identify any inflammation, infection, gum recession, or bone loss around your teeth. Southern Colorado Periodontics and Implants provides periodontal treatment and specialized care for gum disease. Contact us to request an exam and discuss a care plan that is right for you.