Diabetes & Oral Health
How are periodontal disease and diabetes related?
- An estimated 17 million people in the United States have diabetes
- Only one-half of these individuals are aware that they even have this problem
- Diabetics are more susceptible to oral infections and periodontal disease
- Oral infections tend to be more severe in diabetic patients than non-diabetic patients
- Diabetics who do not have their blood sugar levels controlled have more oral health problems
- Periodontal disease is often considered the sixth complication of diabetes.
What is periodontal disease?
- Periodontal (gum) disease may result from gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums usually caused by the presence of bacteria in plaque
- Plaque is the sticky film that accumulates on teeth both above and below the gum line
- Without regular checkups, periodontal disease may result
- Gum disease can cause inflammation and destruction of tissues surrounding and supporting teeth, gums, bone and fibers that hold the gums to the teeth
What are some risk factors of periodontal disease?
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Poor oral hygiene
- Genetic makeup
If diabetic, what types of problems could I experience?
- Diminished salivary flow and burning mouth or tongue
- Dry mouth may develop, causing an increased incidence of decay
- Gum recession occurs more frequently and more extensively in moderate- and poorly-controlled diabetics
- To prevent problems with bacterial infections in the mouth, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics, medicated mouth rinses, and more frequent dental cleanings
How can I stay healthy?
- Take excellent care of your mouth and visit your dentist regularly
- Have dental infections treated immediately
- Diabetics who receive regular dental care and have good insulin control typically have a better chance of avoiding gum disease
- Diet and exercise may be the most important changes diabetics can make to improve their quality of life and their oral health
- Diabetic patients should be sure both their medical and dental care providers are aware of their medical history and periodontal status
- Patients should be aware of their blood sugar levels in addition to having their triglycerides and cholesterol levels checked on a regular basis
Reprinted with permission from the Academy of General Dentistry
» Back to Dental Health Tips
Health Tip:
Men: Pay Attention
to Your Bicycle Seat
Men who bike more than three hours a week should be aware that standard bicycle seats, ridden for extended periods, can cause temporary numbness and, in some, more serious problems, such as erectile dysfunction.
Such problems are caused by compression of an artery and a nerve connected to the penis. New seat designs to minimize compression are now available.
Other preventive measures you can incorporate:
- change the position (height) of the seat
- use a padded or wide seat
- stand frequently on the pedals
- frequently shift positions while riding
- avoid significant time in the forward position
- use the legs to absorb shocks when riding over bumps.
