Periodontal Disease & Links to Diabetes

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month

Research has suggested that there is a link between diabetes and gum disease. People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal problems, possibly because people with diabetes are more susceptible to contracting infections. In fact, periodontal disease is often considered one of the major complications of diabetes. Interestingly, the relationship between the two conditions goes both ways; just as diabetes can increase a person’s chance of developing periodontal disease, research suggests that efficient and effective periodontal hygiene may positively affect blood sugar levels. Visit perio.org for more information about these links.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal diseases are infections that affect the tissues and bone that support teeth. As the tissues are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket that is greater than three millimeters. Learn More About Periodontal Disease

Am I At Risk of Periodontitis?

There are several factors that increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:

•	Studies show that people who smoke or chew tobacco are more likely to have periodontal diseases.
•	Systemic diseases, such as diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV infections, and AIDS can lower the body's resistance to infection.
•	Many medications such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure drugs and oral contraceptives.
•	Bridges that no longer fit properly, crooked, crowded teeth, or fillings that have become defective.
•	Puberty, pregnancy, and oral contraceptives change the body's hormone levels.
•	Genetics may play a role.
•	According to some studies, periodontal disease may be passed from parents to children and between couples.