Gum disease can cause type 2 diabetes

Periodontal disease is a sign of type 2 diabetes?

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes are not always easy to notice. However, early detection of the warning signs can help to prevent serious complications. An important sign of type 2 diabetes is gum disease.

Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body does not respond properly to insulin. Insulin is a hormone that controls the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood. Often people with obesity or obesity suffer from type 2 diabetes. However, sufferers often do not recognize the symptoms of the disease because they do not feel really ill. If left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as kidney problems and nerve damage.

Type 2 diabetes can lead to periodontitis

Type 2 diabetes can lead to gum disease, also known as periodontitis. People with diabetes are more likely to suffer from gum disease if they have a poor blood sugar over a longer period of time. An unhealthy blood sugar level can damage nerves, blood vessels, heart, kidneys, eyes and feet. In the same way, the gums can also be affected.

Why does high blood sugar levels increase the risk of periodontitis?

Since high blood sugar levels lead to damage to the blood vessels, this reduces the supply of oxygen and nutrients for the gums, making infections of the gums and the bone more likely, experts explain Diabetes.co.uk, according to the English-language magazine "Express". An uncontrolled blood sugar level can cause glucose levels in the saliva to rise, and this creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which in turn increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Gum disease can lead to diabetes

Severe gum disease can negatively impact blood glucose control and increase the likelihood of diabetes. The inflammation that occurs in the gums escapes into the bloodstream and disturbs the body's immune system, which in turn affects blood sugar control. In other words, gum disease and diabetes are linked in both directions. The European Federation of Periodontics therefore recommends that you, after a diagnosis of diabetes, inform your dentist to undergo a comprehensive dental examination.

Symptoms of gum disease

• Bleeding in the mouth when cleaning or eating,
• swollen and red gums,
• persistent bad breath,
• periodontosis,
• Gaps between the teeth
• tooth loss,
• the presence of pus around the gingival margin (abscesses).

Typical symptoms of diabetes

Take care of a healthy diet

If people have type 2 diabetes or want to avoid this disease, they should pay particular attention to a healthy diet. For example, the amount of carbohydrates taken should not be disregarded. A healthy diet helps to control blood sugar levels. Researchers also found out some time ago that green tea can prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. (As)