16 Dec How Is Diabetes Linked to Gum Disease?
Did you know that diabetes and gum disease (periodontitis) have been scientifically linked? People who have diabetes are more likely to have issues with their dental health as well. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetics have a high risk for developing gum disease, especially when blood sugar is poorly managed.
Diabetes and gum disease have a two-way relationship, which we’ll explain in more detail below. We’ll talk about how high blood sugar makes gum disease worse and how gum disease makes it harder to control blood sugar. This can be a difficult situation to manage on your own, but our dentists are here to help.
How High Blood Sugar Affects Your Gums
When blood sugar levels are high, your body has a more difficult time fighting off the infectious bacteria in your mouth. This often leads to inflamed and swollen gums. Many diabetics report bleeding when they floss or brush. Bleeding and swelling are two of the first tell-tale signs of gum disease.
Gum disease requires immediate intervention at any stage, but only the first—gingivitis—is reversible. Once the infection advances past this stage, it cannot be reversed, and the symptoms start to become more severe. It can cause receding gums, pockets of pus between the gums and teeth, and even tooth loss.
How Diabetes and Gum Diseases Are Connected
Here’s where it gets important: gum disease can also make it harder to control your diabetes. The infection in your gums can further increase your blood sugar levels. It’s a two-way street. Gum disease can make diabetes harder to manage, and high blood sugar can make gum disease worse.
Dry mouth and high blood sugar levels from diabetes increase the risk of gum disease progressing to its more advanced stages. Factors like smoking can also worsen both diabetes and gum disease by increasing inflammation further. If you have diabetes and you smoke or vape, talk to your doctor about finding support to quit.
Preventing Gum Disease When You Have Diabetes
The good news is that if you control your diabetes, you can also help protect your gums. Keeping your blood sugar in check helps your body fight off the bacteria that cause gum infections. This makes it easier for your gums to heal and stay healthy.
And remember, not all the negative effects of gum disease are permanent. Gingivitis is reversible, and with treatment you can halt the progression of gum disease before it gets to its final states. Your dentist can offer preventive treatments to help restore the health of your gums.
- Take care of your blood sugar levels. This is key to preventing gum disease. Reducing your sugar intake is also fantastic for your oral health.
- Maintain your regular healthy oral habits. Keep brushing and flossing regularly. If it’s uncomfortable, try the tips below.
- See your dentist for checkups and frequent cleanings. Early detection can prevent bigger problems later on.
- Find help with quitting a smoking habit.
Tips for Oral Care When You Have Gingivitis
- If you have gingivitis, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently to avoid irritating swollen gums.
- Floss carefully with a gentle back-and-forth motion (not up and down). Do not snap the floss into your gums. Consider using a water flosser or floss picks if regular floss is too uncomfortable.
- Rinse with warm salt water to soothe inflammation, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria.
- Consistency is key in your oral care routine, and keeping up with these healthy habits will help your gums heal over time.
Treatment for Gum Disease in Sun Lakes, Arizona
At Dr. Saba & Dr. Chiappetti Dental Associates, we offer comprehensive dental care, including effective, non-surgical treatment for gum disease. If you’re showing signs of gum disease please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have helped many seniors in the Sun Lakes area save their teeth and stop gum disease in its tracks. We’d be glad to examine your mouth and discuss the best treatment options for your case. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.
Photo by Nick Youngson from Picpedia.org on 11.8.2024 | used under the creative commons license