Diabetes and Periodontitis

There is emerging evidence to support the existence of a two-way relationship between Diabetes and periodontitis, with diabetes increasing the risk for periodontitis, and periodontal inflammation negatively affecting glycaemic control. Proper or poor #Glycemic control is an important determinant in this relationship.

What is periodontitis?
Periodontal diseases are collectively the most common diseases known to mankind. Their classification is #Complex and takes into account the clinical presentation, age at diagnosis, rate of disease progression, and systemic and local factors that may increase risk. Periodontal diseases include #Gingivitis (in which the inflammation is confined to the gingiva, and is reversible with good oral hygiene) and #Periodontitis (in which the inflammation extends and results in tissue destruction and alveolar bone resorption).

What are the signs and symptoms of periodontitis?

The following are the most common signs and symptoms of gum disease. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Signs and symptoms may include:
-Red, swollen, tender gums
-Bleeding while brushing and/or flossing
-Receding gums
-Loose or separating teeth
-Persistent bad breath
-Dentures that no longer fit
-Pus between the teeth and gums
-A change in bite and jaw alignment

The signs and symptoms of gum disease may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Consult a dentist or other oral health specialist for a diagnosis.

Proper care of your teeth and gums can go a long way in preventing the onset of oral problems associated with diabetes.

The following tooth-brushing and flossing tips are recommended:

#Brushing
-Brush twice daily with a soft, nylon brush with rounded bristles and fluoride toothpaste.
-Use small, circular motions and short back-and-forth motions (avoid hard back-and-forth motions).
-Brush the tongue each time you brush your teeth.
-Brush for about three minutes to clean all of the teeth well.
-Brush the top, back, and front of each tooth.

#Flossing
-Dental floss should be about 18 inches long with each use.
-Do not use a “sawing” motion in between the teeth.
-Curve the floss around each tooth and scrape up and down several times, from below the gum to the top of the tooth.
-Rinse after flossing.

-People with poorly controlled Diabetes (both type 1 and Type two diabetes Mellitus, both adults and Children) are at great risk for Periodontitis and should know of this Risk
-Early Diagnosis and prevention is the fundamental importance to avoid largely irreversible tissue loss that occurs in Periodontitis and early referral of adults and children with poorly controlled diabetes to dental clinicians is necessary for periodontal screening
-Oral health must be practiced and promoted in people with diabetes as an integral component of overall Diabetes Management.

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