Diabetes is, unfortunately, a disease that is becoming increasingly common around the world. Gum disease is another global health concern. While there has been a great deal of publicity given to the risks associated with both these ailments, many people who suffer from one or the other, or who may have a tendency to develop these medical conditions, are unaware of the link between the two and how controlling one can help in controlling the other.

Diabetes and Gum Disease – A Two-Way Street

A person suffering from diabetes will have higher than normal levels of sugar in his/her saliva. This creates an environment that is conducive to the development of plaque and the growth of germs. Both germs and plaque, either together or independently, cause gum and mouth problems. The other factor to keep in mind is that infections resulting from gum disease can cause blood sugar levels to rise and so make a diabetic condition worse. Both, good oral health and the prevention of periodontal (gum) disease, are important not just on their own but also in helping to control diabetes.

The Symptoms of Gum Disease

The most common symptoms of gum disease include:

1. Sore, red and/or swollen gums.
2. Receding gums.
3. Teeth becoming loose or gaps developing between them.
4. Bleeding of the gums while brushing or flossing.
5. Pus developing between the gums and teeth.
6. Chronic or persistent bad breath.
7. Changes in the jaw alignment or bite.
8. Dentures that no longer fit properly.
9. Dryness of the mouth.
10. Fungal infections (oral thrush).

Diagnosis of Gum Disease 

Good oral hygiene is important, but it is not, on its own, enough to prevent gum disease. Regular dental checkups are vital. If you have diabetes, inform the dentist so that this factor can be kept in mind while evaluating your oral health. Also inform the dentist about your medical history and any medications you are taking as this information will help in diagnosing medical problems. During the examination, the dentist will normally:

1. Check the gums and teeth for any signs of injury, damage or disease.
2. Measure and evaluate the effect of any pockets/gaps around the teeth.
3. Compare the results of the current examination with previous ones to see if there have been any significant changes to teeth and gum health.
4. Take x-rays if there are any suspicions of bone loss.

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Also Read: Why Multispecialty Hospitals Are the Best

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The Stages of Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is usually divided into 3 distinct stages, each with its specific treatment needs.

1. Gingivitis: This is the mildest type of gum disease. In this case, the gums may be tender, swollen and/or red. Gum bleeding may occur frequently or regularly, especially while brushing and flossing. Periodontal disease, if diagnosed at this stage, is typically easily treated.
2. Moderate Periodontitis: At this stage of the disease, the gums recede from the teeth, resulting in the formation of spaces between the teeth and gums. Bone loss and weakening of the teeth also occur. Dental care and treatment without delay are essential to prevent the condition from progressing to the next stage, which can happen very rapidly.
3. Advanced Periodontitis: In this stage, there is extensive bone and tissue loss and the spaces between the teeth and gums increase. This will cause heavy bleeding, tender and painful gums, bad breath and other major oral issues. Teeth that are beyond repair may have to be removed.

Treatment of Gum Disease

The type of treatment for periodontal disease will depend on the specific symptoms, the severity of the problem, the age of the patient and overall health. If diabetes is a factor, controlling that ailment will be a vital part of the treatment. Treatment options include:

1. Plaque and Tartar Removal: Deep cleaning (also called scaling and root planing) helps to remove plaque and tartar. Infected tissue is also removed. The damaged areas are smoothened so that it is easier to reattach the gums to the teeth. The gaps between the teeth and gums decrease in size.
2. Medication: Medicine, either applied directly to the affected areas or taken orally to fight infection may be prescribed. Supplements that encourage bone repair and growth may also be advised.
3. Surgery: If the condition is advanced, then surgery may be the best course of action. The dentist will clean all the infected areas, including under the gums, and  will reshape or replace tissue, as required.

Those with diabetes will be advised to:

1. Control their blood glucose levels.
2. Inform the dentist of any changes to their diabetes medication regimen.
3. Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet.
4. Regularly remove and clean dentures, if worn.
5. Inform the dentist of any changes to the diabetic condition.

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Also Read: The Link Between Diabetes And Obesity

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The importance of good oral hygiene is well-known. However, slipping into bad habits is a common problem. So too is making mistakes like using the wrong brushing technique. It is easy to take a daily activity like brushing your teeth for granted and not pay adequate attention to doing it correctly. Proper oral hygiene and regular visits to a dental clinic are essential for the prevention of periodontal disease. The dentist will observe signs of oral hygiene mistakes and offer advice on correcting the problems. He will also see the early signs of gum disease so that steps can be taken to treat the problem in its early stages when treatment is often easier and the results faster. However, because of the connection between gum disease, diabetes and other diseases, going to a dental clinic that is part of a reputed multispecialty hospital is the best option. In case the dentist observes indications that there may be a diabetic complication to a dental ailment, he will have easy and quick access to the best medical specialists and world-class diagnostic and treatment facilities to enable the best treatment for diabetes or other ailments and offer the patient comprehensive care.

Even if you feel you are in good dental health, going to a dentist with access to other medical specializations, if required, is always the better option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does diabetes affect gum health?

Diabetes can cause higher sugar levels in saliva, leading to plaque buildup and gum disease. Additionally, infections from gum disease can raise blood sugar levels, making diabetes harder to control.

2. What are the common symptoms of gum disease?

Common symptoms include sore, red, or swollen gums, receding gums, loose teeth, bad breath, and bleeding while brushing or flossing.

3. What are the stages of gum disease?

Gum disease progresses in three stages: Gingivitis (mild inflammation), Moderate Periodontitis (gums recede, bone loss occurs), and Advanced Periodontitis (extensive tissue and bone loss, potential tooth loss).

4. How is gum disease treated, especially for diabetics?

Treatment varies by severity and includes deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), medication, and possibly surgery. Diabetics need to control blood glucose levels and inform the dentist of any changes in their condition.

5. Why should diabetics choose a multispecialty hospital for dental care?

Multispecialty hospitals offer comprehensive care, allowing for quick access to medical specialists if diabetes or other health conditions complicate dental issues.

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