Diabetes and Periodontal disease

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease. It is characterised by damaged supporting structures in the teeth.

Prevalence

This condition is highly prevalent and severe in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetic individuals. The major causes of the high prevalence of periodontal disease in diabetes patients are increased glucose levels that encourage the growth of microbes.

Treatment

The treatment of periodontal disease in diabetes mellitus includes systemic antibiotics and antiseptic mouthwash. This works by decreasing pathogens, thereby reducing inflammation and sugar levels. In addition to treatment,

  • Lifestyle changes
  • Patient education
  • Self-management
  • Self-monitoring are important aspects in the management of diabetes and periodontitis.

To maintain good oral health in diabetes patients, a regular visit to the dentist is recommended. A collaboration between a medical team and a dentist helps in the management of periodontitis in diabetic individuals.