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Gum disease is sometimes considered the sixth complication of diabetes, but often people don’t even know about it.

When blood sugar levels are poorly controlled and blood glucose levels rise, this means there can be higher levels of glucose (sugar) in the saliva in the mouth. This glucose encourages the growth of the harmful bacteria that form plaque. When plaque builds up, the bacteria can infect the gums causing redness and swelling. This inflammation is one of the first signs of gum disease.

When someone is suffering from diabetes, the blood vessel structure is altered. This may cause a reduction in the blood flow, which in turn may weaken the gums and surrounding bone, leaving them more prone to infections.

Infections often take longer to heal in patients with diabetes, and this applies to gum infections too. This means good oral care, and early treatment of any problems is important.

Gum disease is treated the same way amongst diabetics as in other patients. However, the specific treatment will be assessed depending on a variety of factors. These will include factors such as the extent of the disease, your diabetic condition and your tolerance of medications.