Question:
Has anyone else with type 2 experienced constant gingivitis problems with
the occasional loss of a tooth through jaw bone deterioration?
Answer:
My dentist said he noticed I had some bone loss in one of my teeth. Not sure what this has to
do with diabetes though.
Hyperglycemia makes most bacterial and fungal infections worse, and
gingivitis is a gum infection so it wouldn't surprise me that diabetics
have more than their share of periodontal disease.
Someone on a list I'm on even recommended that patients ask their
dentists for prophylactic antibiotics for dental care because of the
infection problem.
I have read that the American Academy of Periodontology lists diabetes as
a risk factor for periodontal disease. There are some things that can be
done to treat and help prevent this condition. I'd be happy to go into
them if there's interest.
I am a dental hygienist who has worked with a periodontist for the past 20
years. Hopefully the following information will help those with questions.
Gingivitis is an early, reversable inflammation of the gum
tissues...characterized by redness, puffiness, and bleeding. It is the tissues
to response to a foreign body (bacteria) not being removed within 24 hours.
(Just like having an unremoved sliver)
Periodontitis is moderate to advanced stages of gum disease which in most cases
is not painful. A few characteristics are redness, bleeding and/or pus from
the gumline, bad taste/breath, loose teeth or no symptoms at all. (just as a
sliver will fester the longer it's left in place)
Both diseases are CAUSED by bacteria. How one's body deals with the bacteria
is affected by RISK factors. Among the risk factors are: smoking, uncontrolled
diabetes, poor oral hygiene/neglect,genetic predisposition, age,having pockets
deeper than daily home care can clean.
As in any chronic disease that can be controlled. The most effective way to
control the disease is eliminating, reducing,altering or controlling risk
factors.
The best advice for gum problems:
1 Learn and practice effective bacteria removing techniques..its NOT how often
one brushes or flosses it how WELL they remove plaque. Remember, it's not the
arrow, it's the Indian. :-)
2. If you smoke....quit! oh, BTW, I didn't just mean cigarettes..cigars,
smokeless tobacco, nicorette gum and the patch are still forms of nicotine.
3. If you have diabetes....keep it under control
4. There is a test for genetic predisposition....if you know or suspect you
are genetically predisposed.....have professional cleanings every 3-4 months at
minimum.
