Diabetes increases the risk of gum disease
Late onset, or Type ll diabetes, is now considered to double the risk of periodontal disease compared with healthy individuals. Other consequences include heart and kidney disease, peripheral nerve damage and damage to other organs including the eyes. When caught early this form of diabetes is considered easy to manage.
Diabetes and periodontal or gum disease
Evidence suggests periodontal disease is another side-effect of diabetes, one that flourishes if the overall disease is not managed.
Studies also suggest managing the inflammation in gum disease can assist with the overall diabetic disease management. This is thought to be due to a connection between blood glucose and general inflammation in the body. Diabetes affects the body’s ability to use glucose from the blood stream, resulting in raised blood sugar levels. Management aims to reduce and maintain blood glucose concentration within normal levels.
The good news is that prevention and treatment of gum disease comes down to good oral hygiene habits.
Certain groups are more at-risk of developing type II diabetes, and should make prevention of gum disease a priority. These include: those with a family history of diabetes or previous gestational (during pregnancy) diabetes, smokers and those who are overweight.
No, gums should not bleed when brushing your teeth!
In addition, anyone with diabetes who notices redness or puffiness of gums, or even that gums bleed with brushing or biting an apple should get to their dentist as soon as possible.
It seems that brushing and flossing regularly can do more for diabetics than just maintain a bright smile!
