As we mark World Diabetes Day, experts are highlighting the connection between gum disease and diabetes.
The European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) is drawing attention to the effect of diabetes on oral health – as well as the effects of gum disease on diabetes – and how understanding this is essential for improving overall health.
This year’s World Diabetes Day theme is ‘Diabetes and wellbeing’, which focuses on the need for accessible care and support for all individuals living with diabetes – and that includes prioritising gum health.
‘Recent research has shown that diabetes is not only a major risk factor for periodontitis but that the relationship between the two conditions is bidirectional, meaning they both influence and exacerbate one another,’ said Anton Sculean, chair of EuroPerio11, a congress in periodontology hosted by the EFP.
‘Moreover, moderate and severe periodontitis is associated with an increased risk of all-cause and CVD-related mortality in adults with diabetes.’
What does the research say?
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces, leading to increased blood sugar levels.
People with diabetes are significantly more susceptible to developing severe gum disease, with studies showing that they are at a threefold higher risk. The connection between these conditions is especially clear in patients with poorly-controlled blood sugar levels. The higher the level of hyperglycaemia, the more severe the gum disease tends to be.
This is due to the impact of high blood sugar on the immune system, which weakens the body’s ability to combat infections, including those in the gums. In addition, diabetes disrupts the body’s inflammatory response, leading to an exaggerated immune reaction in the gums. This can cause further tissue damage.
Eduardo Montero is an associate professor of periodontology at the University of Madrid. He said: ‘The EFP places great importance on addressing the link between diabetes and gum disease, as it affects not only oral health but the overall well-being of millions of people worldwide.
‘Raising awareness among the public, health professionals, and policymakers is essential. We need to move towards more holistic health systems that recognise the bidirectional relationship between diabetes and periodontitis and integrate oral health into global health strategies.’
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