Diabetes and gum disease

Have you been told by your GP you have Diabetes? Is it well controlled? Do you take diabetes medication? What is your most recent HbA1C test result?

It is understood that people with diabetes are more likely than people without diabetes, to have gum disease. This is especially so, for diabetics with poor control of their blood sugar levels. This is because people with diabetes are more susceptible to contracting infection. In fact, gum disease is often considered a complication of diabetes, along with cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage and eye damage, to name a few.

Research suggests the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease goes both ways:

Diabetic patients are more likely to have gum disease.

Patients’ with gum disease may find it more difficult to control their blood sugar levels.

Severe periodontal disease can induce increased blood sugar levels. Contributing to increased periods of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar. For a diabetic this puts them at increased risk of developing diabetic complications.

What does this mean for you?

1. See your General Medical Practitioner and check your HbA1c levels.
2. Brush and floss daily and if you notice bleeding or discomfort of your gums see your Dentist or Periodontist to check the health of your gums.

Reference

Grossi, S. G., & Genco, R. J. (1998). Periodontal disease and diabetes mellitus: a two‐way relationship. Annals of periodontology, 3(1), 51-61.