Periodontal Disease & Diabetes

Periodontal diseases affect the soft tissues and bone that support the teeth. "Gingivitis," or inflamed gums, is the early form of periodontal disease. If left unchecked, gingivitis can progress to a more severe condition called "periodontitis." This infection, caused by harmful bacteria, eventually destroys the bone and ligament which hold the teeth in place. Sound teeth may become loose and, if untreated, can be lost.

For people with diabetes mellitus, periodontitis can be a major complication of their disease. Periodontal infection can upset blood sugar control, and loose or missing teeth can make eating the right foods difficult.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Dental plaque plays a major role in the development of gingivitis and other periodontal diseases. Plaque, a sticky film containing millions of bacteria, attaches to the teeth. Only certain types of bacteria, however, are suspected of causing gum disease. Dental scientists are studying these and other harmful organisms to determine the exact roles they play in periodontal problems.

Other factors that contribute to gum diseases include poor nutrition, inherited defects in infection-fighting cells, hormonal changes in pregnancy, and certain diseases such a diabetes mellitus.

Who Is Affected By Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal diseases are a problem for many Americans. In fact, the majority of the United States population above the age of 40 probably has some form of the disease, ranging from mild gum inflammation to severe periodontal infection. Although most of the damage from gum disease occurs after the age of 35, dental scientists believe that the disorder has its beginnings in youth. Most United States school children have gingivitis, and some even have the more destructive form of periodontal disease.

Recent studies show that persons with diabetes, especially those whose blood sugar levels are poorly controlled, are at higher risk of developing gum infections. Because of diabetes, periodontal disease is often more frequent and more severe, and tends to appear at an earlier age than in nondiabetics.

Diabetes & Susceptibility To Gum Disease

Thickening of Blood Vessels

Changes in blood vessels, an early complication of diabetes, may be part of the reason for increased susceptibility to gum disorders. Blood vessels deliver oxygen and nourishment to all body tissues, including those in the mouth, and carry away waste products made by the cells. Diabetes causes blood vessels to thicken, slowing down the flow of vital nutrients and the removal of harmful wastes. This can weaken the resistance of gum and bone tissue to infection.