If have diabetes am I more susceptible to gum disease?
Those with diabetes have special concerns when it comes to keeping their teeth and gums healthy. For the nearly 21 million Americans who live with diabetes, problems with teeth and gums are ranked sixth in the list of complications from the disease, according to the National Institute of Dental Research. The link between diabetes and an increased risk of tooth and gum disease is real. But there is a reason to smile: It’s entirely preventable, says one USC expert. Julie Jenks, clinical professor USC’s Advanced Pediatric Dentistry Program, says that the best way to control any of the complications associated with diabetes is to keep the disease in check
Consistently high levels of glucose in the body can contribute to high levels of sugar in the saliva. Diabetes can also affect saliva function, slowing production of saliva or making it thicker. Saliva is the way the mouth cleanses itself of bacteria. If it’s not functioning, if you are experiencing dry mouth or thicker saliva, then bacteria will build up.
High blood sugar can impair blood flow to tissues throughout the body and slows down the body’s ability to fight infection in the gums. People with inadequate blood sugar control experience more frequent and more severe gum disease and tooth decay than average. If left untreated, periodontal disease can increase the body’s blood sugar, making it that much more difficult to control diabetes.
Julie Jenks, Associate Professor
Pediatric Dentistry
USC School of Dentistry
