Diabetes and Oral Health Diabetes that is not properly
controlled can lead to periodontal (gum) diseases in all age
groups. Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums and bone
that hold the teeth in place. Because of blood vessel changes
that occur with diabetes, the thickened blood vessels can impair
the efficiency of the flow of nutrients and removal of wastes
from body tissues. This impaired blood flow can weaken the gums
and bone, making them more susceptible to infection. In
addition, if diabetes is poorly controlled, higher glucose
levels in the mouth fluids will encourage the growth of bacteria
that can cause gum disease. On the other hand, uncontrolled
periodontal disease may make it more difficult to control the
diabetes. A third factor, smoking, is harmful to oral health
even for people without diabetes. However, a person with
diabetes who smokes is at a much greater risk for gum disease
than a person who does not have diabetes. Paired with poor oral
hygiene, diabetes can lead to gingivitis, th