Scientists have proven that the link between diabetes and periodontal disease (gum disease) is undeniable. People with diabetes are at greater risk for developing advanced periodontal disease and even more common dental problems such as cavities because the condition is known to weaken the immune system. However, the link cuts both ways because people with severe periodontal disease also have a harder time controlling the effects of diabetes as well. But what is the connection between these two conditions and how can this information help us limit the negative impact of either upon our overall health?
Diabetes is a dangerous condition that literally affects millions of people around the world. While there are varying types of the condition (as is the case with advanced periodontal disease), diabetics have problems regulating their blood sugar levels. The pancreas is responsible for producing insulin which the body’s way of controlling blood sugar levels. In diabetics, the insulin production is inconsistent and there is a constant struggle to maintain normal blood sugar levels. In addition to increased chances for developing advanced gum disease, there are a number of medical problems associated with diabetes, including:
- Drastic and rapid loss of eyesight
- Nerve damage and potential loss of limbs
- Kidney damage
- Heart Complications
Advanced periodontal disease, on the other hand, is literally an infection caused by harmful bacteria in your mouth which attacks the tissue supporting your teeth. Gingivitis is considered to be one of the more common dental problems but it is merely a less advanced form of periodontal disease and is caused by the same bacteria. If the infection continues and no periodontal disease treatment is performed, it will destroy the tissue that supports the teeth causing them to loosen and eventually fall out. The only effective periodontal disease cures are procedures that kill off the harmful bacteria and stop the infection from spreading.
There are three primary reasons why diabetes causes higher rates of advanced periodontal disease than is seen in the normal population:
- Thickening blood vessels
- Higher blood sugar levels
- Weakened immune system
Blood vessels are important in the prevention of common dental problems because they help speed oxygen and nutrients to tissues in the body while also removing toxins and waste. In diabetics, the blood vessels thicken and restrict the flow of nutrients to the oral cavity while also slowing the removal of toxins thus making it harder for the body to naturally prevent common dental problems like periodontal disease (nearly 1 in 6 adults has advanced periodontal disease and far more have the milder gingivitis).
Bacteria tend to thrive off of sugar which is why common dental problems like tooth decay are made more likely when consuming high levels of candy and similar products. Diabetics tend to have blood sugar spikes where levels increase above their normal range and this will cause an increase in bacteria levels and elevate odds for developing severe periodontal disease.
Diabetics also tend to have a weakened immune system which makes them more vulnerable to common dental health problems, including periodontal disease. However, the link between diabetes and periodontal disease weakens when patients properly control the condition with medication.
