Periodontal Disease and Diabetes

It’s a well-documented fact that individuals with diabetes have a heightened susceptibility to infections compared to those without diabetes. What’s less known is that periodontal disease is often dubbed the sixth complication of diabetes, particularly when diabetes isn’t adequately managed. Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis or gum disease, is a progressive ailment that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss.

The onset of periodontal disease begins with a bacterial infection in the gingival tissue encircling the teeth. As bacteria proliferate, gum pockets deepen, tissue recedes, and periodontitis gradually erodes the underlying bone tissue. Diabetes, characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, poses a significant risk to oral health. In Type II diabetes, the inability to regulate insulin results in excess glucose lingering in the bloodstream, while Type I diabetes entails insufficient insulin production.

Reasons for the Connection

Experts highlight the bidirectional relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease, wherein the exacerbation of one condition can worsen the other if not properly managed. Here’s how diabetes and periodontal disease intertwine:

• Increased Blood Sugar: Moderate to severe periodontal disease can spike sugar levels in the body, making glucose regulation challenging for diabetics with periodontitis. Elevated sugar levels in the mouth provide nourishment for bacteria, exacerbating periodontal infections.
• Blood Vessel Thickening: Diabetes thickens blood vessels, hindering the efficient exchange of nutrients and waste products. Thickened blood vessels compromise gum tissue resistance, fostering infection and gum disease.
• Smoking: Tobacco use hampers oral healing processes and significantly elevates the risk of developing periodontal disease. Diabetic smokers face a substantially higher risk of periodontitis, especially individuals aged 45 and above.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral health is imperative for diabetics. Inadequate oral hygiene allows harmful oral bacteria to thrive, exacerbating metabolic issues faced by individuals with diabetes.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Regular dental checkups, at least twice yearly, are crucial for individuals with diabetes. Studies demonstrate that non-surgical periodontal treatments can significantly lower HbA1c levels—a key blood test metric—by up to 20% over a six-month period. Dental professionals assess periodontal risk factors using medical history, family history, and dental X-rays. Non-surgical interventions like deep scaling and root planing remove calculus and smooth tooth roots to eliminate bacteria. Antibiotics may be applied to gum pockets to facilitate healing.

Maintaining Oral and Systemic Health

If you have inquiries or concerns regarding diabetes or periodontal disease, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. We’re committed to safeguarding your oral and overall health.