The article "The Two Way Relationship Between Diabetes and Periodontal Disease," by Debora Matthews, DDS, MSc, (Journal of the Canadian Dental Association, 2002; 68 (3): 161-164,) lists the ways that diabetes affects periodontal health. Diabetics are more prone than most people to develop xerostomia or dry mouth. This is both an effect of the disease and medications. Saliva is important to maintain oral health, so without saliva, diabetic patients are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease. Diabetes damages blood flow to the gums (gingiva), which limits the body's ability to heal itself increasing the severity of periodontal disease. Diabetics with periodontal disease are more likely than otherwise healthy people to develop gingival abscesses due to their poor response to infection.

Infections, large sores and open wounds destabilize blood glucose control for diabetics. Periodontal disease affecting every tooth affects the same surface area as a sore the size of an open palm. Treating periodontal often helps to bring unstable blood glucose levels under control. Once under control, blood glucose levels are easier to maintain as is periodontal health.

Author: Dr. David Leader

© 2008 Associated Content