Gum Disease and Diabetes: How Are They Linked?

The relationship between diabetes and gum disease is a complex, two-way connection that has gained more attention in recent years.² Both conditions are widespread, with diabetes affecting around 11.6% of the U.S. population and severe periodontitis impacting 10-15% of adults.^1,2 Recent scientific research has highlighted how these two chronic conditions can influence each other’s development and progression.²

Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes is a long-term health condition where the body has high levels of sugar in the blood over an extended period.³ It can happen because the body doesn't produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or because the body doesn't use insulin effectively (Type 2 diabetes).³ High blood sugar can lead to various complications, including nerve and blood vessel damage.³

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, includes a range of conditions that affect the gums and the structures around the teeth. Gum disease is mainly caused by the buildup of bacterial plaque on the teeth and gums.⁴ It starts with gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen and bleeding gums.⁴ Thankfully, gingivitis, the early form of gum disease, is reversible. But if untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that affects the bone supporting the teeth and can lead to tooth loss.⁴

The Relationship Between Diabetes and Gum Disease

Research has shown that diabetes and gum disease have a two-way relationship.² This means that not only does diabetes increase the risk of gum disease, but having gum disease can also impact your glycaemic control, which impacts diabetes.²

How Diabetes Affects Gum Health

• Weakened Immune System: Diabetes weakens the immune system, potentially making it harder for the body to fight infections, including those in the gums. High blood sugar also promotes the growth of bacteria that cause gum disease.^5,6
• Inflammation: Chronic high blood sugar causes inflammation, which can contribute to gum disease. Inflammation can potentially damage gum tissue and bone.⁶
• Less Saliva: People with diabetes may create less saliva, which means less protection against tooth decay and gum disease.⁷
• Higher Glucose Levels: Diabetes can increase the amount of glucose in your saliva, which contributes to tooth decay and exacerbates gum disease.⁷

How Gum Disease Affects Diabetes

• Inflammation in the Body: Gum disease causes inflammation in your gums, which can increase your risk of developing diabetes.⁷
• Blood Sugar Levels: Gum disease can influence glycemic control, making it harder to regulate blood glucose levels and potentially disrupting diabetes management strategies.²
• Blood Sugar Control: Studies have shown that treating gum disease can improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes, highlighting the importance of good oral health for potentially managing diabetes.²

Preventive Measures and Treatment

Given the links between diabetes and gum disease, it’s essential to adopt good oral hygiene practices.² This includes:⁸

• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Everyone should have regular dental check-ups to monitor and manage gum health.
• Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing daily can help prevent gum disease.
• Professional Gum Treatment: For those already affected by gum disease, professional treatment by a dental professional can help manage the condition and might improve overall health.
• Using a Quality Toothpaste: Brushing with a toothpaste, such as Active Gum Repair Toothpaste from parodontax, can help reverse the signs of early gum problems.*

By recognizing and addressing the link between these two conditions, healthcare providers can urge individuals with diabetes to incorporate good oral care into their diabetes management approach, potentially improving patient outcomes.² Learn more about gum disease and prevention by visiting our Gum Health article hub.

*vs a regular toothpaste used by people who have gingivitis