Periodontal Disease and Diabetes Fountain Valley, CA
If you have diabetes, you already know the many health effects of this systemic condition. Diabetes can impact your eye health, your heart health, your kidneys, and your nerves. If you have diabetes, you are also at a greater risk for developing periodontal disease. If periodontal disease develops, treatment is needed right away to help manage your diabetes. Bijan Family Dental Practice can help.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also commonly called gum disease, occurs as a result of a bacterial infection. When bacteria build up in your mouth, they begin to irritate your gums. This irritation triggers an inflammatory response that causes the tissue to swell. Red, swollen gums are the earliest signs of periodontal disease, but they are also the ones that are most overlooked. Without treatment, gum tissue begins to pull away from the surfaces of your teeth, which leads to the formation of periodontal pockets. Bacteria collect in these pockets, where they continue to irritate the gums. The pockets grow deeper, and the bacteria begin to attack your periodontal ligaments and your jawbone, which compromises the stability of your teeth. Bacteria can even enter into the bloodstream, which can contribute to, and worsen, health issues, including diabetes.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
There are many symptoms associated with periodontal disease. The symptoms vary depending upon how advanced your condition is. Common symptoms include
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Red, swollen gums. Your gums may also bleed when you brush and floss.
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Gum recession. This causes your teeth to appear longer and small spaces to appear between your teeth.
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Tooth sensitivity. This occurs as a result of root exposure due to gum recession.
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Chronic bad breath.
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Loose teeth.
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Tooth loss. |
The Connection Between Periodontal Disease and Diabetes
Diabetes can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. When your diabetes is not well managed, your blood sugar levels are elevated. The amount of sugar in your saliva is also higher. These additional sugars provide extra food for oral bacteria, which consume the sugars and produce acids that irritate your gum tissue.
While diabetes can increase your risk for periodontal disease, periodontal disease can also increase your risk for developing diabetes. Once bacteria enter your bloodstream, they begin to interfere with the ability of your body to use insulin properly. This can result in higher blood sugar levels, which can then contribute to diabetes and the issues associated with it.
How is Periodontal Disease Treated and Prevented?
When gum disease develops, treatment is needed right away. The type of treatment you receive depends upon how advanced periodontal disease has become. Treatments for periodontal disease include
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Scaling and root planing.
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Periodontal maintenance.
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Pocket reduction surgery.
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Osseous surgery.
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Gum and bone grafting. |
If you have diabetes and periodontal disease develops it is important that you let us know about your condition. Having diabetes can affect the effectiveness of certain treatments, especially if your blood sugar is not well controlled. Also, certain procedures may need to be postponed until your blood sugar levels are under control.
After treatment for periodontal disease, it is essential that you take steps to prevent it from developing again. Steps include brushing and flossing every single day, as well as regular dental cleanings and exams every six months. If you currently have diabetes, it is important that you take the necessary measures to keep your blood sugar levels under control.
If you have diabetes, it can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. Taking proper care of your mouth, with regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings and exams is essential for maintaining your oral health as well as keeping your diabetes under control. For more information, and to schedule your appointment, call Bijan Family Dental Practice at (714) 421-4494 today.
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