15 Jul The Relationship Between Periodontal Disease and Diabetes
Without the proper treatment, both gum disease and diabetes could lead to serious health issues. These two diseases have a lot more in common than you might realize. Keep reading to learn more about the link between periodontal disease and diabetes and what you can do to lower your risk for both:
Diabetes Brings a Higher Risk of Periodontal Disease
Diabetics have a higher chance of suffering from periodontal disease because they are more susceptible to infections. If you do not make an effort to control your diabetes, you have an even higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Diabetics should work closely with their dentists to ensure that they properly clean and care for their teeth and gums to reduce this risk for infection.
Periodontal Disease Increases Diabetes Symptoms
When it comes to diabetes, one of the worst side effects of periodontal disease is the fact that increases blood sugar levels. This can be very dangerous for a person who is already struggling to control their sugar. High blood sugar might increase symptoms like increased thirst, excessive tiredness, and blurry vision. If you have gum disease, it is important to seek treatment to avoid these increased blood sugar levels.
Blood Vessels and Bacteria
Diabetes could actually thicken the blood vessels, which makes it harder for the body to move important nutrients throughout the system. Thicker blood vessels also make it more difficult to clear waste. Both of these factors hinder the gum and bone tissue from preventing infections. Increased sugar levels in the blood also leave the body more susceptible to bacteria, which could increase the risk for infection even more.
If you have diabetes, Dr. John Carson can help. As one of Tucson’s top dentists, Dr. Carson offers treatments for gum disease as well as general and preventative treatments to keep your teeth and gums healthy. From dental crowns to cosmetic dentistry, our office provides the services you need to maintain your oral health. For more information on our services, visit us online or call (520) 514-72035.