Diabetes and periodontal disease are related since diabetics can develop an aggressive and destructive form of periodontal disease causing early loss of teeth. Poorly controlled diabetics have increased sugar in their blood. Normal blood glucose varies from 70 to 100 milligrams per deciliter. Athletes and healthy people tend to have lower levels. Regardless of what you may have been told, anything above 110 is not normal and you should struggle to achieve a normal blood sugar. Elevated levels of sugar feed the bacteria that cause periodontal disease and tooth decay. Poor blood sugar control can not only cause gum disease but also eye, heart and nerve damage.
Your gums keep healthy by feeding on the nutrients brought by the blood. Poorly controlled diabetes causes blood vessels to thicken and slows the delivery of nutrients. Thickened blood vessels also slow the removal of waste products from the gums. Waste product build up causes gingival irritation and inflammation. Protective immune cells are barred from entry. The decrease in availability of nutrients and protective immune cells can also cause severe dental infections. Diabetics heal slowly due to blood problems which complicates periodontal therapy and oral surgery.
Because of the link between diabetes and periodontal disease, you should do everything you can to control your blood sugar levels. This is possible by controlling what foods you eat, by exercising daily, and by taking supportive vitamins, minerals and medications. Take good care of yourself because no one else will. Exercise, eat well, rest and enjoy life. Brush and floss three times a day and apply a fluoride gel (PerioMed) to your teeth and gums. Visit the dentist more than two times a year and additionally whenever your gums are acting up. Don't smoke.
The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. We are concerned about the connection between diabetes and periodontal disease. Our group offers comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry for patients of all ages. If you are interested in dental care, consider scheduling a consultation with our senior Atlanta Family Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, by calling 404-874-7428.