How Diabetes and Periodontal Disease Can Affect Each Other (And What You Can Do About It)
Did you know that diabetes and periodontal disease are two common chronic conditions that can affect millions of people worldwide? And did you know that they can also influence each other in significant ways?
In this blog post, we will explain what diabetes and periodontal disease are, how they are related, and why it is important to know about this link. We will also share some tips on how to prevent and treat these conditions and improve your oral health and your overall well-being.
What are diabetes and periodontal disease?
Diabetes is a condition that affects how your body uses glucose, a type of sugar that is the main source of energy for your cells. When you have diabetes, your body either does not produce enough insulin, a hormone that helps glucose enter your cells, or does not respond well to insulin. This causes your blood glucose levels to become too high or too low, which can lead to various health problems.
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a condition that affects the tissues that support and surround your teeth. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist. Plaque and tartar can irritate your gums and cause them to become inflamed, red, swollen, and bleed easily. This is called gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, the second stage of periodontal disease, where the infection spreads to the bone and ligaments that hold your teeth in place. This can cause your teeth to become loose, shift, or fall out.
How does diabetes increase the risk of periodontal disease?
Diabetes can affect your oral health in several ways, such as:
- Reducing your blood flow, which can make your gums more prone to infection and inflammation.
- Lowering your immune system, which can make it harder for your body to fight off bacteria and heal wounds.
- Increasing your glucose levels in your saliva, which can promote the growth of bacteria that cause gum disease.
According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes are two to three times more likely to develop periodontal disease than people without diabetes. Moreover, people with poorly controlled diabetes are more likely to have severe gum disease than people with well-controlled diabetes.
How does periodontal disease affect blood sugar control?
Periodontal disease is not just a problem for your mouth. It can also have serious consequences for your blood sugar levels. When your gums are infected, they release harmful bacteria and toxins into your bloodstream, which can interfere with your insulin production and sensitivity. This can make it harder for you to control your blood glucose levels and increase your risk of developing complications from diabetes.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with periodontal disease have higher blood glucose levels than people without periodontal disease. Moreover, people with periodontal disease who receive treatment can lower their blood glucose levels by an average of 10%.
How can treating one condition improve the other?
The good news is that treating either diabetes or periodontal disease can have positive effects on the other condition. For example:
- Improving your blood sugar control can reduce your risk of gum disease by improving your blood flow, immune system, and saliva quality.
- Improving your oral hygiene can lower your blood glucose levels by reducing the amount of bacteria and toxins in your mouth and bloodstream.
- Visiting your dentist regularly can help you prevent and treat gum disease by removing plaque and tartar, detecting signs of infection early, and providing professional cleaning and treatment.
According to a study published in the Journal of Periodontology, people with type 2 diabetes who received intensive periodontal treatment had lower blood glucose levels after six months than people who received standard periodontal treatment.
What are the best ways to prevent and treat diabetes and periodontal disease?
The best way to prevent and treat diabetes and periodontal disease is to follow a healthy lifestyle that includes:
- Regular dental check-ups: You should visit your dentist at least twice a year for a comprehensive oral examination and cleaning. Your dentist can also advise you on how to manage your diabetes and periodontal disease effectively.
- Oral care: You should brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day to remove plaque from between your teeth. You should also use an antiseptic mouthwash or rinse to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Blood sugar monitoring: You should check your blood glucose levels regularly with a glucometer or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) device. You should also keep track of your results