2023-08-04 15:07:30
Title: Dentists Warn of Increased Risk of Gingivitis in Diabetic Patients
Publication Date: August 4, 2023
Dentists are urging individuals with diabetes to prioritize oral health as a new study reveals a staggering 4.2 times higher risk of developing gingivitis in diabetic patients. This heightened risk highlights the need for regular dental check-ups every three months to mitigate the potential severity of the condition.
Normally, the body naturally produces insulin, a hormone responsible for converting sugar in the bloodstream into energy for various bodily tissues. However, periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, can trigger inflammation throughout the body, disrupting the sugar control process. Patients with severe periodontitis have an increased risk of insulin resistance, making it even more challenging to control sugar levels. Moreover, this impacts diabetic patients, potentially leading to higher chances of complications from the disease.
Dr. Sumana Phosrithong, Director of the Institute of Dentistry, explains that gum disease and diabetes have a reciprocal relationship, with both conditions affecting each other. Elevated blood sugar levels in diabetic patients can further deteriorate the condition of periodontitis. Increased blood sugar can bind to specific proteins, resulting in tissue destruction and inhibiting repair, thus exacerbating the severity of periodontitis. As a result, patients with diabetes face a 4.2 times higher risk of developing gingivitis, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these diseases.
The severity of one disease ultimately impacts the severity of the other, underscoring the importance of simultaneously prioritizing physical and oral health. Dr. Praewpailin Sompeewong, a specialized dentist in periodontics, explains that periodontitis, or pyorrhea, is caused by bacteria in plaque, releasing substances that destroy the tissues and bones supporting the teeth. These bacteria can also create wounds up to 5-20 square centimeters in the oral cavity, providing an entry point for bacteria and various inflammatory substances to enter the bloodstream. This can result in inflammation throughout the body, thereby affecting other organs.
Given this mutual relationship, dental treatment should be approached alongside diabetes management. Treating periodontitis in diabetic patients can help reduce the reliance on insulin to control sugar levels. Additionally, effectively managing blood sugar levels in diabetic individuals can minimize the risk of developing periodontitis, making the risk similar to non-diabetic individuals. Regular follow-ups, ideally every three months, are crucial to monitor the progress of treatment and ensure optimal oral and physical health outcomes.
The findings outlined by dentists serve as a reminder to diabetics that oral health cannot be overlooked. Maintaining good oral hygiene is not only vital for dental well-being but also acts as a gateway to overall physical health. By prioritizing oral health in conjunction with diabetes management, individuals can mitigate the risk of gingivitis and enhance their overall quality of life.]
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