The mouth is the entry point for food that you eat. So if you eat nutritious or unhealthy food, it impacts every part of your body such as bones, muscles, organs, joints, and systems. However, what most people are unaware of is that the condition of our mouth is linked to the overall health, says dentist in Sugar Land.
The scientists and researchers have discovered the oral-systemic connection which specifically points to the link between gum disease and your general health. Let’s explore more:
WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
Before you begin to look at how diabetes and gum disease are related, let’s look at what gum disease is. Gum disease is a bacterial infection. Our mouth is full of millions of bacteria and when these bacteria combine with mucus and food particles, they form plaque, explains the dentist in Sugar Land.
Brushing and flossing can help in getting rid of the plaque but if it’s not removed, the plaque transforms into tartar which can’t be removed by brushing and the dentist will need to perform a professional cleaning. Without professional cleaning, the bacteria in tartar invade the gum tissues, leading to inflammation and bleeding gums. This is known as gingivitis which if left untreated, can become Periodontitis. It’s marked by enlarging gum pockets, destruction of bone around teeth, loosening teeth, and gradual tooth loss.
DIABETES AND PERIODONTAL DISEASE
According to a dentist near 77479, people with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease than people who are not diabetic as diabetes increases your chances of infection. Some physicians also consider periodontal disease a complication of diabetes. People, who don’t control their diabetes well, are at a greater risk of gingivitis and Periodontitis.
According to the dentist in Sugar Land TX, studies show that the relationship between diabetes and gum disease is a two-way street where not a controlling one can put you at risk of developing another. Advanced Periodontitis can increase blood sugar and also increase the risk of diabetic complications. If a loved one has diabetes, taking care of the gums becomes all the more important.