Research shows that gum disease and diabetes may affect one another. For instance, gum disease can intensify the complications associated with diabetes by increasing blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels over an extended period of time are associated with premature degeneration of eyes, kidneys, nerves and blood vessels.
Studies have also shown that people with diabetes face a greater risk of developing oral infections and gum disease than those who do not have diabetes. The good news is that the treatment of either gum disease or diabetes can lead to improvements in the other.
Your dentist has the training and experience necessary to assess your oral health, and to determine a course of treatment that is best for you. Some of the most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are:
tooth decay
gum disease
dry mouth
fungal infections
lesions in the mouth
taste impairment
infection and delayed healing
If you are a diabetic, speak to your dentist about the best course of treatment for you. Make sure to let him or her know:
if the diabetes is under control
if you take insulin and when your last usual dose of insulin was administered
if there has been any other change in your medical history
the names of all the herbal medicines, prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking
Information as per the Ontario Dental Association.
Dr. Annabel Braganza – Peterborough Periodontist, Implant and Gum Specialist
705-741-1885