Periodontal Disease can cause Diabetes

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum and the bone that supports the teeth. This disease has been associated with the progression of diabetes. In periodontal disease, body reacts to bacteria causing gum infection by producing proteins or chemical called inflammatory radiator. Ulcers and open sores in the gum can also become a passageway for these proteins and bacteria to enter the body's circulation.

Inflammatory radiator as well as some part of the bacteria prevents the body from efficiently removing glucose or sugar level from the blood. High level of sugar is known as poor diabetes control. Poor diabetes control can lead to serious complications, such as vision disorders, cardiovascular and kidney disease and even amputation.

Cleaning and other non- surgical periodontal treatment removes the harmful bacteria. It is believed that this helps to prevent the body from producing harmful chemicals that can enter the systemic circulation and contribute to poorer diabetes control. Patient with Type II diabetes and periodontal disease who receives periodontal therapy see level of oxidative stress reduced to the same level as non diabetic patient. In summary, to prevent diabetic condition from worsening, one should visit his/her dentist for regularly check- ups and cleaning.