Diabetes & Oral Health
Diabetes is a group of chronic inflammatory diseases that affect the body's ability
to process sugar. If you have diabetes, it is particularly important to maintain
excellent oral health. That's because diabetics are more prone to oral infections
such as periodontal (gum) disease, which can result in tooth loss if left untreated.
Conversely, the presence of gum disease can make it harder for people with diabetes
to control their blood sugar levels.
Periodontal disease is a chronic ailment that is also associated with an elevated
level of systemic (whole-body) inflammation. Like diabetes, it may have wide-ranging
consequences outside the mouth - possibly increasing a person's chance of experiencing
major cardiovascular events (such as heart attack or stroke) or adverse pregnancy
outcomes (low birth weight and pre-term delivery). So perhaps it's not surprising
that a growing body of evidence suggests the two diseases are related.
Two Diseases That Have A Lot In Common
It has long been recognized that having diabetes is a risk factor likely to increase
the severity of periodontal disease. That's because diabetes reduces the body's
resistance to infection, making diabetics more susceptible to both bacterial and
fungal infections. Likewise, evidence shows that having serious gum disease (periodontitis)
is likely to result in worsening blood glucose control in diabetics; it can also
increase the risk of diabetic complications. So, what's the connection?
While no one is sure at present, the two diseases seem to share some common pathways
and disease-causing mechanisms. Both are associated with the process of inflammation
and the immune response. Inflammation itself - often signaled by pain, heat and
redness - is evidence of the body's immune system at work, attempting to fight disease,
repair its effects, and prevent it from spreading. Chronic or prolonged inflammation,
however, can lead to serious problems in different parts of the body and a decline
in overall health.
A Two-Way Street
While diabetes can't be cured, it's possible to manage the disease on a long-term
basis. And here's some good news: Clinical studies show that diabetics who get effective
treatment for their periodontal disease also receive some significant benefits in
their general health. Many exhibit better blood glucose control and improved metabolic
functioning after periodontal treatment.
What kinds of treatments might be needed? While much depends on the individual situation,
some typical procedures might include: scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning
that removes plaque bacteria from teeth, both above and below the gum line); antibiotic
therapy; and oral hygiene self-care instruction.
Likewise, if you're at risk for diabetes but haven't yet developed the disease,
there are some things you can do to forestall it. While there is a significant genetic
component, a major risk factor for diabetes is being overweight - so keeping your
weight under control will better your chances of avoiding it. High levels of triglycerides
or low levels of HDL (good) cholesterol are also risk factors. These may respond
to changes in your diet - like cutting out sugary drinks and eating healthier foods.
Also, high blood pressure coupled with an inactive lifestyle puts you at greater
risk. Here, moderate exercise can help.
When you come to our office, be sure to let us know if you're being treated for,
or are at risk of developing diabetes. And if you are managing the disease, remember
that it's more important than ever to maintain good oral health.