People living with diabetes are twice as likely to develop serious gum disease
NEW YORK, NY (November 1, 2010) – For the nearly 24 million Americans living with diabetes, many may be surprised to learn about an additional complication associated with the condition – serious gum disease. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), there is an increased prevalence of gum disease among those with diabetes, making proper oral health and hygiene a key factor to living well with diabetes.
Recent research shows that people living with diabetes are twice as likely to develop serious gum disease as people without diabetes. They are at an increased risk for gum disease because they are generally more susceptible to bacterial infection, and have a decreased ability to fight bacteria that invade the gums. Emerging research also suggests that the association between serious gum disease and diabetes is a two-way relationship. Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to developing gum disease, but serious gum disease also known as periodontitis can adversely affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.
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