Diabetes and Your Gums

Type II Diabetes causes problems with wound healing and can impede blood flow in the smallest blood vessels. In the same manner poorly controlled or uncontrolled diabetes can cause foot problems (even to the point of amputation), it contributes to the speed and severity of gum disease (periodontitis).

Home testing of blood sugar levels, proper dieting, and taking medications as directed by your physician are all very important to maintaining your dental health. Compared to other problems associated with type II diabetes, dental health might be low on the list; however, gum disease has been linked to cardiac disease due to the toxins produced by bacteria that enter the bloodstream.