The Relationship between Diabetes and Periodontal Diseases
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, it is important that you see your periodontist regularly. People with diabetes are more likely to develop periodontal disease, as well as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage than non-diabetics. Diabetics also tend to have less resistance to infections, which makes them particularly susceptible to gum disease.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Madison by calling (310)553-2940.
Diabetes can make it difficult to control blood sugar, which, in turn, can increase the risk of periodontal disease. Poor blood sugar control can lead to a high-glucose level in the mouth, an environment in which bacteria thrive. Increased bacteria in the mouth, along with lower resistance to infections, can make it more likely to develop periodontal disease. This two-way relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease is why diabetics should see their dentist or periodontist every 4-6 months, in order to lessen the risk of future oral complications.
The Stages of Periodontal Disease
The symptoms of early-stage periodontal disease are subtle. In fact, many patients experience periodontal disease and do not even know it. It is only in the advanced stages that people experience recessed gums or loosened teeth. In the beginning, however, the symptoms are slightly red or swollen gums or gums that bleed when brushing or flossing. This stage is called gingivitis, and it can be reversed or halted with daily brushing and flossing.
However, if gingivitis is not taken care of in the early stages, it can progress to Periodontitis, a more serious stage of gum disease. Periodontitis is an infection of the gum and bone tissues that keep the teeth in place. Periodontitis is when plaque builds up and hardens on the tooth near and under the gum tissue. This causes the gums to pull away, exposing the bone holding the tooth in its socket, creating "pockets" between the gums and teeth.
These "pockets" are difficult to clean and are easy targets for bacteria and infection, which can eventually lead to tooth and bone loss. Brushing and flossing are not enough to combat Periodontitis at this stage. It requires seeing a periodontist; a dentist trained in treating gum disease.
Thickening Blood Vessels
Another reason why diabetes contributes to periodontal disease is that it causes thickening of the blood vessels. Constricted blood vessels make it more difficult for blood to circulate, which makes it harder for blood to clean up accumulated wastes in the body. In this environment, bacteria and other harmful agents can build up in the mouth, making it more likely to develop oral infections and increased chance of gum disease. On the other hand periodontal disease can cause thickening of the blood vessels in other parts of the body. This relationship creates a vicious circle which if left untreated will have a poor outcome for the total as well as the oral well being of the patient.
If You Have Diabetes and Smoke.
It is no surprise that smoking is harmful to your health, but if you have diabetes and smoke, then the risks are even greater for developing periodontal disease. In fact, studies have shown that diabetics older than 45 who smoke are 20 times more likely than a person without these characteristics to develop serious periodontal disease. Again, it may come as no surprise, but if you have been diagnosed with diabetes and smoke, it is crucial for the health of your gums and teeth that you quit.
Conclusion
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, then it is essential that you see your periodontist regularly, every 4-6 months. Your periodontist can help spot potential gum disease and prevent it from getting out of control. Maintaining a healthy blood sugar level will also help prevent the onset of periodontal disease. Statistics show that diabetics with good blood sugar control are at no more risk to develop gum disease than people without diabetes. Therefore, with careful maintenance and regular visits to the periodontist, diabetics can enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Madison by calling (310)553-2940.
If you have any other questions or comments regarding this article, please contact us at (310) 553-2940 or by email at beverlyhillsperio@gmail.com.
Dr. Miles Madison, D.D.S., is an award-winning periodontist in Beverly Hills, California.
