Is there a link between diabetes and gum disease?

Dr. Jena Ward

January 19, 2024

It is not commonly known, but yes there is a relationship between diabetes and gum disease (periodontal disease).

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease which affects the supporting structures of teeth – the gums, ligaments, and bone. Gingivitis is the early reversible stage of periodontal disease. Signs that you may have gingivitis are bleeding red and/or swollen gums. Gingivitis is caused by an accumulation of plaque along the gumline. If the plaque is not removed, it hardens and turns into calculus causing irritation of the gums. With regular check-up and cleans to remove calculus the symptoms can subside. Continuation of oral hygiene at home between dental visits to maintain the health of your gums is imperative. Untreated gingivitis results in periodontitis, that not only affects the gums but the bone surrounding the teeth as well. Signs that you may have periodontitis are bleeding red or swollen gums, receding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth. Periodontitis is a slow progressive disease; however, the destruction of the surrounding supporting structures is largely irreversible. Periodontitis causes the gums to recede, detachments of the ligaments surrounding the teeth and ultimately causing bone resorption, and tooth loss.

Periodontitis affects 10-15% of adults, and those that have diabetes are three times more susceptible. Diabetes that is not controlled increases blood glucose levels in the fluids excreted by the gums. Bacteria in our mouths feed off the sugar creating plaque and calculus, leading to gum disease. In contrast, untreated periodontal disease can lead to the rise in blood sugar levels which makes it difficult to control diabetes.

For optimal management of diabetes routine check-up and cleans at the dentist are crucial. Give us a call here in Capalaba, and one of our lovely receptionists will help book you in.

About the author

Dr. Jena Ward is the principal dentist and owner of Skye Dental. She graduated dentistry with first class honours from Griffith University. She won the award for Clinical Excellence in Endodontics following her extensive research into root canal therapy. Previously she graduated with a BSc majoring in Biomedicine from Auckland University. After graduating she worked rurally, focusing on Neuromuscular, Aesthetic, Reconstructive and Implant Dentistry before opening Skye Dental.

Jena keeps up to date with numerous conferences, and utilises the latest technology, including 3D CAD/CAM. Her special interests include Invisalign (an almost invisible option to straighten teeth), root canal therapy, and cosmetic dentistry, including Implants. She works with a lot of phobic patients, and offers Twilight Sedation.

Originally from Brisbane, raised in Hong Kong Jena has lived in eight different countries and relates easily to all patients. Her patients travel to see her, from interstate and even overseas. Jena enjoys spending time with her family, sailing and volunteering her dental services overseas in third world countries.

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