The Link Between Diabetes & Gum Disease

Diabetes affects many parts of the body, including your mouth. If you have diabetes, you may have a higher risk of developing gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. The relationship can go both ways, too: gum disease can make it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels.

It isn’t all bad news, though! Dr. Jill Smith and her team at Dental Health & Wellness Boston have a specialized approach to dentistry for diabetic patients and understand the unique dental challenges that they face. With that in mind, let’s examine the connection between diabetes and gum disease, as well as tips for preventing periodontal issues and managing diabetes.

Why Does Diabetes Increase Your Risk?

Diabetes can affect your body’s ability to fight infections. When blood sugar levels aren’t well controlled, this may make it easier for harmful bacteria in dental plaque to contribute to gum inflammation and infection.

High blood sugar can also contribute to a higher level of glucose in saliva, potentially providing an environment where certain harmful bacteria can thrive. Diabetes may also affect the body’s ability to heal, which can make it more difficult for inflamed gum tissue to recover.

Gum disease often begins as gingivitis, causing red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Without treatment, it can progress to periodontitis, which can damage the bone and tissues supporting your teeth.

Tip #1: Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

One of the best ways to prevent gum disease is to keep plaque under control. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Be gentle around your gums, but don’t avoid cleaning areas that bleed.

Regular dental examinations and professional cleanings are especially important if you have diabetes. Your dentist can monitor your gums for early signs of inflammation and provide treatment before gum disease becomes more advanced.

If you’re a first-time patient at Dental Health & Wellness Boston, let Dr. Smith and her team know that you have diabetes so they can consider your health history when planning your care.

Tip # 2: Manage Your Blood Sugar

Following your diabetes management plan is an important part of protecting your overall health, including your gums. Work with your healthcare team to monitor and manage your blood sugar levels according to their recommendations. Tracking your glucose levels regularly, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular physical activity are all key to effective diabetes management.

Good blood sugar control can support your body’s ability to fight infections and heal properly.

Tip #3: Avoid Tobacco

Smoking and other tobacco use significantly increase the risk of gum disease and can interfere with healing. If you use tobacco, talk with your healthcare provider or dentist about resources that can help you quit.

Diabetes doesn’t mean you’re destined to develop gum disease. Consistent oral hygiene, regular dental care, healthy lifestyle habits, and appropriate diabetes management can all help lower your risk.

About the Author

Dr. Jill Smith is the founder of Dental Health & Wellness Boston, located in the city’s downtown area. She graduated at the top of her class at Boston University School of Dental Medicine and has a background in psychology as well, enabling her to successfully build trust with patients who have issues that affect overall health, like diabetes. Dr. Smith and her team perform full gum evaluations at every checkup and offer fast and comfortable laser gum therapy for those with periodontal disease. Call us at (617) 742-1220 if you have questions or would like to make an appointment, or you can schedule online.