Gum Disease Diabetes

Gum Disease

Diabetes

 

By: Elizabeth Dunkleberger DDS

 

A two-way street

Periodontitis is a chronic

inflammation of the gums which

damages tissue and results in bleeding

gums, drifting teeth, and eventually

tooth loss. Alarmingly, those with

periodontitis are at much greater risk

for developing diabetes within 10 years

than those without. This is because the

chronic inflammation that is present

with periodontal disease affects your

ability to regulate blood glucose levels.

Even gingivitis, the precursor to

periodontitis, is a contributing factor

for developing diabetes.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO?

n Eat a balanced diet & avoid sugar

n Quit smoking

n Exercise moderately

n Tell us about any changes to your

oral health including loose teeth,

bleeding gums, puffy gums, or

chronic bad breath – all signs of

advancing gum disease.

n Foremost, brush and floss

regularly and keep your regular

appointments with us. Call now

to confirm your next visit!