Periodontal Treatment Improves Metabolic Control in Diabetics

Posted on October 19th, 2009 | In Word Of Mouth

There is a connection between periodontal (gum) disease and the successful management of diabetes. This information is important to any physician working with diabetic patients.

Periodontal Treatment Improves Metabolic Control in Diabetics

Chronic oral infections complicate management of diabetes.

dentists have long observed that diabetic patients tend to have more gum infections than do non-diabetics. Research shows that in diabetics, periodontal disease is more severe and more prevalent than in non-diabetics (1). Research shows that gum disease complicates the management of diabetes, and that diabetes can worsen the management of periodontal disease. This evidence supports viewing the gum disease – diabetic relationship as bidirectional (2).

This information sends a strong signal to dentists and physicians managing diabetic patients. Medical doctors should inquire as to the dental status of their patients and should insist that these patients are receiving routine therapies to control and combat chronic oral infections. A clinical trial in 2006 compared two groups of periodontal patients, one with and one without diabetes. Both groups found improved gum health with proper perio treatment, and the diabetic patients showed improved metabolic control at 3 and 6 months after periodontal treatment (3).

Basic periodontal health care delivered by a dentist and dental hygienist, along with improved daily home care, improves the diabetic management of Type 2 diabetic patients. Dentists aware of this research and who are proactive with their patients, are insisting that patients with gum disease receive proactive medical management to control their diabetes.

1- Diabetes Monitor 2- Taylor G., Bidirectional Interrelationships Between Diabetes and Periodontal Diseases, Annals of Perio, 2001, Vol. 6, No. 1. 3- Clinical and Metabolic Changes After Conventional Treatment of Type 2 Diabetic Patients With Chronic Periodontitis. Faria-Almeida R, et.al, J. of Perio. 2006.050084

Important Points:

• Gum disease increases systemic inflammation.
• Diabetics have more gum disease
• Gum disease complicates diabetic management
• Periodontal treatment lowers HbA1c levels

Dr. David Weaver
Rivergate Dental Care
133 North Creek Blvd.
Goodlettsville, TN 37072

Phone: 888.411.SEDATE
Fax: 615.851.3535