Controlling Periodontal Disease in Diabetes Mellitus

Periodontal disease is infection of the gums and bone tissues that surround and support the teeth. Advanced periodontal disease can cause tooth loss. Elevated blood glucose levels set the stage for periodontal disease to develop, but the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease doesn't stop there. The American Academy of Periodontology reports that research indicates severe periodontal disease causes blood glucose levels to rise, which in turn puts the diabetic at higher risk for other complications. Periodontal disease can be treated, but with attention to the teeth and gums, it can be prevented.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

• Symptoms of early periodontal disease--called gingivitis--are red and swollen gums that often bleed while brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is reversible and can ordinarily be eliminated with thorough brushing and flossing. If periodontal disease advances, serious damage to the gums and bone supporting the teeth can occur. Symptoms of advanced periodontal disease include tender, swollen and red gums; receding gums; separating or loosening teeth; pus between teeth; persistent bad breath; a change in tooth alignment; or dentures no longer fitting. Diabetes reduces the body's ability to fight off any infection and makes healing take longer, so periodontal disease tends to be more severe among diabetics.

Treatment

• If you notice any signs of possible periodontal disease, see a dentist promptly so it can be treated in its early stages. If periodontal disease is advanced, the dentist might perform scaling and root planing to clean away tartar and remove bacteria. Antibiotics in slow-release forms might be implanted into the gums when teeth are scaled and planed. Additionally, prescription antibiotics, antimicrobial mouthwash or enzyme suppressant pills are sometimes prescribed. Oral surgery might be recommended, including bone and tissue grafts.

Prevention

• To maintain good oral health and avert periodontal disease, brush twice a day and floss or use interdental cleaners daily. In addition, take diabetes prescriptions as recommended and eat to maintain a healthy glucose level, which will reduce the glucose present in saliva. Glucose in saliva leads to development of plaque and tartar, which invite periodontal disease. See a dentist for an oral examination twice a year, and tell the dentist about having diabetes and what prescriptions you take.