Physician Education
The Prevalence of Periodontal Disease & Diabetes

Recent studies have shown that diabetes is a major risk factor for periodontitis, as those with the disease are about three times more susceptible to periodontitis. Diabetes can also increase the number of teeth affected by periodontitis and its severity. Additionally, the studies suggest that poor blood sugar control is strongly linked with an increased risk of developing periodontal disease.

DIABETES CAN LEAD
To a host of other health issues if not properly treated, including the following:

  • Eye problems (retinopathy)
  • Foot problems (which can lead to amputation if untreated)
  • Heart attack & stroke
  • Kidney problems (nephropathy)
  • Nerve damage (neuropathy)
  • Gum disease and other oral problems

The risk of vision problems and amputations for people with diabetes has been well-publicized. Now, research shows diabetics lose twice as many teeth on average as those without the disease. Also, black Americans with diabetes have a greater risk of tooth loss as they age, compared to white or Mexican Americans.

Finally, research has shown that periodontal disease has a negative effect on blood sugar among type 2 diabetic patients, and significantly reduces glycated hemoglobin (HA1c) in the blood by an average level of 0.40%. These findings were observed following 3-4 months of periodontics procedures done on patients with both type 1 or type 2 diabetes and periodontitis.

Get In Touch With Us

Dr. Fatima Robertson DDS, PA is an oral surgeon serving patients from the Allen, TX and McKinney, TX areas. Treatments provided include laser gum surgery, gum grafting, skin grafting, bone grafting, dental implants, gum recession treatment, and oral cancer screening. When it comes to gum disease treatment and periodontics procedures, there’s no better periodontist around.

Learn more about what we do and schedule an appointment by calling our office or right through our website.