Diabetes and Periodontal Disease: An Increased Risk

When you have diabetes, you are at greater risk for periodontal disease. This is an infection of the gums and tissues supporting the teeth. Any periodontal disease you may develop can be more severe and harder to control. Preventing or controlling periodontal disease needs ongoing care. Untreated or uncontrolled periodontal disease may make it harder to control your diabetes.

What causes gum infections?

Bacteria in your mouth form a sticky, whitish film (plaque) on teeth. If plaque is not removed daily, it can harden into a rough yellow or brown deposit (tartar). Tartar is harder to remove from your teeth than plaque. Bacteria from plaque and tartar can cause swollen, infected, and receding gums. More severe gum and bone disease may then happen.

Prevention

Follow the guidelines below to help prevent periodontal disease:

• Use good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth after each meal and floss daily. Don’t forget to also brush your tongue. Your dentist may suggest special aids to help keep your teeth clean.

• See your dentist regularly. Your dentist may want to see you every 3 to 4 months for exams and cleanings. How often you visit your dentist will depend on how severe your periodontal disease is. It may also depend on your plaque and tartar buildup, and how well you care for your teeth and gums. Tell your dentist if you have any problems controlling your blood sugar.

• Control your blood sugar. Keeping your blood sugar at a healthy level will help control your diabetes. Doing so will also help your body fight infections and may lessen the severity of your periodontal disease. Take your diabetes medicine as instructed.