{"id":449,"date":"2025-08-27T13:34:10","date_gmt":"2025-08-27T13:34:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.drtwohig.com\/blog\/?p=449"},"modified":"2025-08-27T13:34:11","modified_gmt":"2025-08-27T13:34:11","slug":"gum-disease-and-diabetes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.drtwohig.com\/blog\/2025\/08\/27\/gum-disease-and-diabetes\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding the Link Between Gum Disease and Diabetes"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you\u2019re one of the 34 million people in the United States with diabetes, then it\u2019s important to be aware of the impact that it can have on your oral health. Statistics show that over a fifth of all people with Type I or Type II diabetes also have some form of gum disease<\/a>. What exactly is the reason for this connection? And is there anything you can do about it? Here\u2019s what you should know if you want to maintain a healthy smile.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How are Diabetes and Gum Disease Connected?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Simply put, diabetes can significantly increase your risk of suffering from gum disease if it isn\u2019t properly controlled. High blood sugar levels can weaken your immune system and lead to poor blood circulation. As a result, your body will be more susceptible to infections in general. Naturally, this includes gum disease, which is an infection of the soft tissues protecting the roots of your teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On top of that, diabetes can cause your body to produce less saliva, resulting in a dry mouth. Saliva plays an important role in washing away the bacteria that can cause oral health issues. If there\u2019s less saliva in your mouth, it will give harmful bacteria a chance to thrive, creating an environment where gum disease is more likely to occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can You Avoid Gum Disease If You Have Diabetes?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Even if you have diabetes, you can reduce your chances of developing gum disease by following these simple steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n