5 things to know about gum disease and diabetes

Diabetes and periodontal disease, a moderate to severe form of gum disease, are chronic inflammatory conditions that have a major impact on the health of millions of people worldwide.

Here are five things to know about the link between these diseases:

Fact 5: A sugary diet aggravates periodontal disease and diabetes. Dietary sugar plays a major role in dental disease and diabetes.

Fact 4: Diabetes can increase the risk of periodontal disease. People with poorly controlled diabetes appear to be more susceptible to infectious diseases, including periodontal disease.

Fact 3: Periodontal disease can affect blood sugar levels; uncontrolled periodontal disease can worsen blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Fact 2: Periodontal disease can increase the risk of heart and kidney problems. Research has shown that diabetics with periodontal disease have a greater risk of developing cardiovascular and kidney problems than diabetics without periodontal disease.

Fact 1: Your dentist can help. Periodontal disease can be treated and stabilized.

So, if you suffer from diabetes, be sure to see your dentist regularly.