Diabetes Linked to Tooth Decay

Doctors say that diabetics are more prone to periodontal diseases. More than 70% of diabetic patients suffer from a periodontal problem. Research has found a link between diabetes and dental problems. Doctors say that diabetics are more prone to periodontal diseases. 

According to the results of the study, periodontal disease makes it harder for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar.

"Research on 113 Indians suffering from diabetes showed that after treating periodontal infections, it became easier to manage their diabetes," said Dr. D. Gopalakrishnan, secretary general of the international clinical dental research organization.

Dental expert Dr. Vikas Goud explains the connection between the two: "In diabetic patients, due to the slow glucose metabolism rate and low immunity, high glucose level in the saliva leads to bacterial infection, resulting in diabetic oral manifestations like swollen gums. The insulin, which would have helped in glucose metabolism, is now used to fight infections. Therefore, the sugar level goes up further, posing a risk to diabetic patients. Once the sugar level comes down, again the swollen gums become normal."

More than 70% of diabetic patients suffer from a periodontal problem.

Dr. Sudheer Chowdhury, dental surgeon at Ameerpet Dental Hospital, Hyderabad, says the symptoms to look out for are bleeding while brushing teeth, swollen puffy gums, bad breath, tooth problems that require frequent use of tooth-picks and wobbly teeth.

Journal of Periodontology Aug, 2011