If you live with diabetes, you’re probably more concerned about your blood sugar levels than you are about your dental health. But in reality, your oral health could be directly impacting how well you’re able to maintain your blood glucose levels.
In reality, we typically see a cyclic relationship between periodontitis (gum disease) and blood glucose levels. When blood sugar rises, gum tissues tend to show more signs of gingivitis, redness, and unmanaged periodontal conditions. And when gum disease goes untreated, it’s typically more challenging—if not impossible—to stabilize blood glucose readings, even if you’re on a medication regimen and following a strict diet.
Oral disease allows bacteria to spread into the bloodstream. In turn, this can naturally increase your blood glucose levels. By manually removing the oral plaque with brushing, daily flossing, and professional dental cleanings, you can prevent the spread of oral biofilm and thereby naturally stabilize blood sugar readings (1).
Consequently, unmanaged diabetes can increase your susceptibility of gum disease and make oral infection more difficult to manage. Which is why 1-in-5 diabetics will experience some form of periodontal-induced tooth loss. (2)
When you have heavy tartar buildup or active gum disease, professional dental cleanings and periodontal therapy are the only way to get ahead of your oral infection.
Thankfully there is good news for diabetics who have gum disease. By combining an effective oral hygiene routine with periodontal therapy and glucose management, both conditions can be treated jointly. In turn, joint management has scientifically been proven to show the best treatment outcome.
By removing oral bacteria every day and working with your dentist or periodontist, you can get ahead of diabetes-induced tooth loss.
1. American Dental Association. Gum disease can raise your blood sugar level. JADA. July 2013.
2. Martin, L. Diabetes and your smile. MouthHealthy.org.