Discussing the Link Between Periodontal Disease and Diabetes is complicated, with some considering them as two separate-but-related topics. Some healthcare practitioners relate their occurrence together, while others are less clear on how these two may be linked. Searching the internet, you’ll find a whole lot of opinions out there. So if you’re curious about the link between these two oral health-related problems, read this article to see just what the state of science has to say!
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease (PD) is a type of infection that affects the gums and tooth roots. PD is caused by bacteria, which can get into your mouth through your teeth or gums. The bacteria can then cause inflammation and damage to the gum tissue. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
Signs of Periodontal Disease
- Red or Swollen Gums
Red or swollen gums may be a sign of periodontal disease, which is a type of gum disease. Periodontal disease can cause your gums to become red, tender, and swollen. It can also make it challenging for you to eat and speak.
- Tender or Bleeding Gums
If your gums are tender or bleed easily, you may have periodontal disease. The bleeding occurs mostly when you are brushing, flossing or taking meals.
- Bad Breath
Bad breath is a sign of periodontal disease. The stem of your tooth may be affected. This is where the root of the tooth meets the jawbone. Tiny bacteria called plaque can form on the surface of this part of your tooth. Plaque can attach to teeth nearby and harden into tartar, which is a really tough plaque.
- Receding Gums
Periodontal disease can also cause the gums to recede. When the gums recede, they can expose pockets of bone and soft tissue below. This can make your teeth appear longer than usual.
As plaque buildup continues, pockets form beneath your gum line (gums are attached to the teeth). This is where bad breath comes from. The pockets contain dead bacterial cells and other toxins that cause an unpleasant odour.
- Loose Teeth
Loose teeth are a sign of periodontal disease in adults. When plaque builds up on the surface of your teeth and gums, it can cause your gums to shrink, recede, and ultimately pull away from your teeth. This process can lead to loose teeth and other dental problems.
The Connection Between Periodontitis and Diabetes
The connection between periodontitis and diabetes is an increasingly popular topic of discussion as both conditions continue to become more common. According to the World Health Organization, periodontitis is one of the most prevalent chronic oral disease in the world, affecting more than 200 million people. In addition, diabetes is now the second leading cause of death in different parts of the globe.
There are a number of reasons why these conditions might be connected. Periodontitis is a complex condition that can result from a number of factors, including poor oral hygiene, smoking, obesity, and insulin resistance. Diabetics are also at an increased risk for developing periodontal diseases due to their higher levels of insulin resistance and overall poor health.
Additionally, people with periodontal disease are at high risk of developing diabetes. It is believed that the bacteria in periodontal disease make it harder for people with diabetes to control the levels of their blood sugar. Also, severe inflammation may raise the level of blood sugar. This can worsen complications related to diabetes.
The consequences of periodontitis can be serious. In severe cases, it can result to tooth loss. In addition, untreated, periodontal diseases may spread throughout the body, resulting in inflammation and an increased risk for other types of chronic diseases such as heart disease and stroke.
There is still much we do not know about the link between periodontitis and diabetes, but there are certainly intriguing connections that need to be explored further. If you are struggling with both conditions, it may be worth seeking out professional help to get on track with proper dental care.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease
- Brushing and Flossing
If you want to avoid periodontal disease, it’s important to brush and floss every day.
To brush your teeth, start with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Sweep the bristles back and forth across all of your teeth in a circular pattern. Be sure to get into corners and between your teeth.
To floss, use a long-bristled floss thread that is at least 18 inches long. Start at one end of your gum line and work your way up towards the other end. Use gentle pressure as you floss; over-flossing can damage your gums. Flossing also helps remove plaque from between your teeth.
- Quit Smoking
Smoking is the primary cause of periodontal disease. Studies have shown that people who smoke have a 50% increased risk of developing the periodontal disease compared to people who don’t smoke. Additionally, smoking significantly increases your risk of other oral health problems, including cancer.
- Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet is also important for preventing periodontal disease. Good foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources. Additionally, make sure to avoid heavy cream and high-fat items. Eating a healthy meal every day will help keep your gums healthy and prevent periodontal disease from developing.
Treatment of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease can be treated in various ways. Some of them include the following:
- Scaling
This is where the dentist removes plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and below the gum line. It can only be performed by the dentist using specialized medical tools.
- Root Planning
The treatment helps in smoothening the surface of the teeth preventing any further buildup of plaque and tartar.
conclusion
It has long been known that periodontal disease can be a precursor to diabetes, but the underlying reason for this connection is still not very clear. However, numerous research has linked periodontal disease to diabetes. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary measures and prevent periodontal disease.
If you have symptoms and you suspect that you might be suffering from periodontal disease, don’t worry; schedule an appointment with us at Carrum Downs Dental Group. Our dentist will take a look at your gums and recommend the best treatment.