For people living with diabetes, taking care of their gums is just as important as managing blood sugar levels.
More and more research is showing a strong connection between gum disease—also called periodontal disease—and diabetes.
This relationship goes both ways. People with gum disease are more likely to develop diabetes, and those with diabetes are about three times more likely to get gum disease.
According to the World Health Organization, gum disease affects around half of all adults worldwide. It contributes to a larger problem of poor oral health, which impacts more than 3.5 billion people every year. Understanding how oral health and diabetes are connected is important for protecting long-term health.
Dr. David Wu from Harvard School of Dental Medicine recently explained why this connection exists. When someone has diabetes, high blood sugar levels can weaken the body’s ability to fight off infections. This makes it easier for bacteria in the mouth to grow, especially since people with diabetes often have more sugar in their saliva.
These bacteria can lead to plaque buildup, which irritates the gums and causes infection. As a result, gum tissue can break down, and this can lead to periodontitis—the more severe form of gum disease.
There are warning signs that may suggest gum disease is starting. These include red, swollen gums that bleed easily, especially while brushing or flossing. Other signs include bad breath that doesn’t go away, gums that feel tender, teeth that start to feel loose, or gums that begin to pull away from the teeth.
These symptoms may not be painful at first, but they should be taken seriously. Getting checked by a dentist or periodontist early can make a big difference.
Good news is, treating gum disease can also help with diabetes. When gum infections are controlled, the body has less inflammation overall. This helps improve the way the body uses insulin and makes it easier to keep blood sugar levels steady.
This is why dental care should be a regular part of diabetes management. Seeing a dentist regularly and getting gum treatments when needed can lead to better health outcomes.
Recent research has helped doctors and scientists understand even more about this connection. They’ve found that the inflammation caused by gum disease can make it harder to manage diabetes. And when diabetes isn’t well controlled, it creates the perfect conditions for gum infections to grow.
Experts are now studying how factors like genetics and the kinds of bacteria in the mouth might also play a role in this back-and-forth relationship. This research is helping bring medical and dental professionals closer together to give patients more complete care.
People with diabetes can take several daily steps to protect their gum health. Brushing teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly are essential. Keeping blood sugar under control, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding tobacco use also help prevent gum disease.
Dentists often recommend that people with diabetes get their teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year. In some cases, they may need to visit every three months to make sure gum disease is not getting worse.
In summary, the mouth is a key part of overall health, especially for those with diabetes. Paying attention to gum health isn’t just about having a clean smile—it can also help manage diabetes and prevent serious complications. Making dental care part of your diabetes plan can lead to a healthier future.
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