Can diabetes increase the risk of gum disease?
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American Dental Association answered:Gum diseases are often more frequent and more severe in people with diabetes, especially if they smoke. Diabetics with poor blood sugar control are more likely to lose teeth than diabetics who have good control. There are also data suggesting that treating gum disease might help improve blood sugar control. That’s why it is important to have healthy blood sugar levels, have a well-balanced diet, practice good oral care at home and see your dentist regularly for checkups.Gum diseases are often more frequent and more severe in people with diabetes, especially if they smoke. Diabetics with poor blood sugar control are more likely to lose teeth than diabetics who have good control. There are also data... More -
Dr. De Vizio of Colgate answered:Diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, has a strong connection with diabetes. Diabetes slows down the body’s healing process, and the body is also less resistant to infection. Everybody has a lot of bacteria in their mouths, which constantly causes plaque to form. For a person with high blood sugar levels, the bacteria reproduce faster, causing even more plaque, which turns into tartar. Tartar is a harder substance that makes brushing more difficult. The tartar can cause swelling and infection in the gums, if it isn’t cleaned off the teeth properly and regularly. People with diabetes should take extra care of their teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care. That will help keep the plaque at bay, and decrease the risks of gum disease.Diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, has a strong connection with diabetes. Diabetes slows down the body’s healing process, and the body is also less resistant to infection.... More -
RealAge answered:Having diabetes puts you at risk for periodontal disease (gum disease). Over time, gum disease breaks down the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place -- leading to infection and tooth loss. If you have diabetes, your risk of gum disease is higher due to your body's lower resistance to infection. The high-sugar environment (brought on by high blood glucose) also gives bacteria in your mouth a chance to thrive. Diabetes can cause dry mouth, mouth infections, and cavities, too. If you have diabetes, see your dentist at least twice a year, maybe more. And be sure to practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing every day.
Having diabetes puts you at risk for periodontal disease (gum disease). Over time, gum disease breaks down the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place -- leading to infection and tooth loss. If you have diabetes, your risk of gum... More
