According to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA.org,) approximately, 95 % of Americans with diabetes also have periodontal disease, due in part to an increased susceptibility to infections.
Diabetes that is not controlled well leads to higher blood sugar (glucose) levels in the mouth fluids. This promotes the growth of bacteria that can cause gum disease. On the other hand, infections from untreated periodontal disease can cause the blood sugar to rise and make it harder to control diabetes.
Another factor, smoking, is harmful to oral health even for people without diabetes. But a person with diabetes who smokes is at a much greater risk for gum disease than a person who doesn’t have diabetes.
