The Link between Diabetes and Gum Disease

The Link between Diabetes and Gum Disease

• Is there a link between diabetes and gum disease (periodontal disease)?
  

  Diabetes and periodontal disease have a bidirectional relationship. This means that while Diabetes increases the risk of gum disease, gum disease makes it difficult to control blood sugars, potentially increasing it.

• Are diabetic individuals more likely to develop dental problems than those without the condition?
  

  Individuals with diabetes are roughly 3 times more likely to develop dental problems than those without the condition.

• Can gum disease lead to diabetes?
  

  No, gum disease cannot cause diabetes, but it can worsen blood sugar control in people with diabetes.

• Is gum disease a possible early sign of diabetes?
  

   Gum disease might be an early sign of diabetes and may be a useful risk indicator for diabetes screening.

• Is gum disease a complication of diabetes?
  

  Gum disease is considered the sixth complication of diabetes after retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, cardiovascular diseases and peripheral vascular diseases.

• How does diabetes affect the dental health of a person?
  

  Chronic diabetes has a severe effect on one’s dental health. Some of these effects include:

  • Poor wound healing
  • Decreased immunity
  • Poor treatment success

• Can a dentist detect diabetes?
  

  Yes, dentists can detect signs of diabetes during routine dental examinations which can be   confirmed  by blood examinations.

• How often should a diabetic patient visit the dentist?
  

  People with diabetes should visit the dentist every 3-6 months for dental cleanings and check ups.

• What if gum disease in diabetic people is left untreated?
  

  Untreated, the disease advances in stages, from inflamed gums to tooth loss. High levels of blood glucose increase the risk that gum disease will progress from mild to severe.

- written by Dr. Seema G MDS - Senior Periodontist - Trivandrum Dental Specialists Group