People don’t often realize that diabetic gum disease is one of the most common complications of diabetes. According to Diabetes.co.uk, an estimated one-third of all diabetics will suffer from diabetic gum disease at some stage of their disease. Keeping your blood sugar levels on target, routinely visiting your dentist, and practicing good self-care will help you to avoid oral issues in diabetes.
Blood glucose levels which are not strictly managed lead to higher than usual glucose levels in the mouth’s fluids. We all remember hearing that sugar rots our teeth when we were young, diabetic gum disease and other oral problems work by the same principles. When there are higher-than-usual sugar levels in the mouth it encourages the growth of gum disease-causing bacteria.
Another way that diabetic gum disease comes about is damage to the blood vessels. In diabetes the structure of the body’s blood vessels are often altered. This affects the efficiency of the flow of blood, which often weakens bone and gums, leaving them even more prone to infections.
Symptoms of Diabetic Gum Disease
The symptoms of diabetic gum disease could occur individually or in groups. If any of these symptoms are noticed, it is time to have a consultation with a dentist or other type of dental health expert. The symptoms which may manifest in diabetic gum disease are:
- Bleeding in mouth which is stimulated by brushing and/or flossing
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Gums in recession
- Loose teeth
- The presence of pus between the teeth or gums
- Changed bite or jaw alignment
- Persistent bad breath
Diabetic Gum Disease & Oral Health Problems
It is important to know about all the complications which can occur in diabetes, whether you’re a diabetic or not. For those with diabetes, there are basically three oral problems that you should be most concerned of. According to the Mayo Clinic they are:
Tooth Decay – Everyone’s mouth naturally contain all types of bacteria. Plaque is formed when the bacteria interacts with the starches and sugars which you ingest. The acids in plaque attack the outer surface of your teeth (enamel). Cavities are formed this way. High blood sugar levels contribute to your teeth wearing away.
Gingivitis – Gingivitis is early gum disease. The gingiva is the part of your gum at the base of your teeth. You know that you have gingivitis if your gums become swollen and bleed. Gingivitis occurs because plaque is not regularly removed and tartar forms, irritating the gingiva. Gingivitis is notjust diabetic gum disease, but in diabetes it is much more rampant because of the body’s lessened ability to fight infection.
Periodontitis – Gingivitis leads to advanced gum disease if left untreated. This is called periodontitis. Periodontitis causes damage to the soft tissue and bone which support your teeth. Eventually this will cause your teeth to loosen and eventually fall out. An infection such as this may cause your blood sugar levels to rise as well, making them difficult to control.
