Diabetes and Gum Disease
Gum disease is one of the lesser-known complications that can affect patients with diabetes. It is estimated that a third of all diabetics suffer from periodontitis at some stage of their disease.
What does gum disease have to do with diabetes?
When diabetes is poorly managed, it can lead to periodontal diseases in both children and adults. It has been recorded as affecting children as young as 6. Periodontal diseases may be classified as those infections which affect the bone holding the teeth in place, and the gums.
When a body is suffering from diabetes, the structure of the blood vessels is altered. This may affect the efficiency the blood flow, and in turn may weaken the bone and the gums, leaving them more prone to infections.
Furthermore, if diabetes is not strictly managed, there may be higher than usual levels of glucose in the mouth fluids. This will encourage the growth of gum disease-causing bacteria.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
The symptoms of gum disease as a result of diabetes may manifest themselves individually or in groups. To obtain an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to consult a dental health expert. The symptoms may include the following:
- Bleeding in mouth stimulated by brushing and/or flossing
- Swollen, red or tender gums
- Gums in recession
- Loose teeth
- The presence of pus between the teeth or gums
- Changed bit or jaw alignment
- Persistent bad breath
What forms of periodontal disease could I be suffering from?
- Periodontal diseases are usually classified according to the level to which the disease has advanced. These are as follows:
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, and is characterised by swollen, red or tender gums. This may cause them to bleed easily during standard dental health care routines such as brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can usually be averted by a dentist, and by following a home dental health care program.
- Periodontitis (Mild): When gingivitis goes untreated, it may lead to mild periodontitis. This stage of the disease will begin to erode the bone around the tooth. In order to prevent further erosion, it will be necessary for the patient to have prompt medical attention.
- Periodontitis (Severe): This is the most advanced stage of gum disease, and is characterised by significant tissue and bone loss around the teeth.
How will my periodontal disease be treated?
Periodontal disease is treated amongst diabetics in the same way as other patients. However, the specific treatment will be assessed depending on a variety of factors. These will include the extent of the disease, your diabetic condition, your tolerance of medications, etc.
Following an assessment, and depending on the severity of the disease, a variety of techniques may be employed. These can include plaque removal, medication, surgery, dental implants, and soft-tissue grafts.
What other oral problems may be caused by diabetes?
Unfortunately, the scope of diabetes to cause other oral problems is not limited to gum disease. Diabetes may also cause thrush through high glucose levels in the mouth. Dry mouth and all of the related problems that occur with it may also affect patients with diabetes.
How do I prevent periodontal disease and oral problems?
An appropriate dental health programme including regular brushing and flossing can go a long way to preventing oral problems associated with diabetes. Managing your blood sugar well will also help to reduce the risk of developing periodontitis. Also, periodontitis can work the other way: at a severe level it may actually increase blood sugar, putting a diabetic at risk of further complications.
