Gum Disease, Systemic links and Diabetes

Gum Disease, Systemic links and Diabetes

There are two types of gum disease; they are called gingivitis and periodontitis. These are infections of the mouth caused by bacteria. The mouth contains the highest amount of bacteria in the body; hundreds of different types thrive in its environment. Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the UK.
The bacteria in the mouth travel throughout the body via inhalation, ingestion and circulation causing adverse effects to it.
Signs and Symptoms of gum disease:
Bleeding
Redness
Swelling
Loose teeth
Drifting to a different position
Gum recession
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Foul Taste in mouth
Occasionally Discomfort
Symptomless
Diabetes
Gum disease has an adverse effect on diabetic patients. When the diabetes is uncontrolled patients are more prone to developing infections such as the bacterial infection gum disease (periodontal disease). This is due to the cells responsible for healing and impaired due to a bacterium found in the mouth. The high glucose (sugar) in the saliva provides an ideal environment for bacteria to live and thrive in. When a patinets gum disease is uncontrolled the diabetes worsens and vise versa.
The high glucose within the fluids that the gums excrete can also cause an increase in dental decay.
For further reading and information:  (Persson et al 2003) (Chee 2013)