In recent years, it has become clear that the association between periodontal diseases and diabetes is bidirectional: not only is diabetes a risk factor for periodontal disease, but periodontal disease can also negatively affect glycemic control.
Diabetes triggers an exaggerated inflammatory response to pathogenic bacteria in the gums, accelerating the destruction of periodontal tissues. In turn, periodontitis can initiate or increase insulin resistance much like obesity by promoting a state of systemic inflammation.
Periodontal disease makes diabetes harder to control.
Taking this into account, multiple studies have found evidence that:
- Periodontal diseases are associated with greater difficulty controlling blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
- Diabetes is more frequent among individuals with periodontal diseases; and periodontal diseases are more common and more advanced in people with diabetes.
- Periodontal diseases increase the risk of diabetes-related complications. People with diabetes and advanced periodontitis have a three-fold higher risk of cardiorenal mortality than those with diabetes but no periodontitis.
- Periodontal diseases progress faster in poorly controlled diabetes. Adults with poorly controlled diabetes had a 2.9-times higher risk of periodontal disease than those without it.
It is clear that oral and periodontal health must be an integral part of diabetes management. People living with diabetes should maintain excellent oral hygiene and see a periodontist regularly to prevent and control periodontal diseases.
The purpose of this post is to explain how periodontitis in people with diabetes can increase the risk of serious complications. This content is general in nature. Professional periodontal care not only aims to preserve your teeth, but also to support your overall health. For an evaluation of your specific situation, a consultation with a specialist is necessary.
If you live with diabetes, gum care is a vital part of your treatment. Book a periodontal evaluation. Contact us via WhatsApp, phone call, or through our form.
