Gum Disease and Diabetes

Researchers at Edinburgh University in Scotland have recently discovered that treating gum disease in diabetics can also minimize the complications associated with diabetes. Scientists aren't quite sure yet why solving a problem with the mouth will also solve problems with the rest of the body, but the theory is that the bacteria infecting the mouth cause chemical changes in the body that reduce the effectiveness of insulin, thereby raising blood sugar levels (Source: BBC News, May 12, 2010).

It's Not Just Diabetes

Scientists had suspected that gum disease and diabetes were linked, but hadn't yet been able to prove the connection. The new research, which was a collaboration between Edinburgh University and three other institutes and universities, proves conclusively the link between gum disease and diabetes.

Yet this is not the first time that scientists have linked gum disease to other chronic health problems. Gum disease also leads to an increased risk for both heart disease and stroke. Again, researchers aren't yet entirely sure why the two diseases seem to be linked, but in the case of heart disease, it seems that the oral bacteria entering into the blood stream adversely affects the heart. Attaching to the fatty plaques within the coronary arteries, the bacteria increases clot formation, which in turn can lead to stroke.

Talk to Your Dentist about Gum Disease

If you have or know you are at risk for any of the diseases mentioned above, you owe it to yourself to keep your gums clean and healthy. Consult with your dentist or a qualified periodontist to learn more about keeping your gums healthy. If you already have signs of gum disease – including bleeding or swollen gums – you should seek the help of a dentist right away. As recent research is proving, keeping your gums healthy will help to keep the rest of your body healthy.