By Dr. Iman Sadri
March 8, 2021
Periodontal Disease (or Gum Disease) runs rampant in Americans. It is estimated that over 1/3 have some form of gum disease. A number well over 100 million. 34.2 million Americans—just over 1 in 10—have diabetes. A number that is most likely far higher than what is estimated. 88 million American adults— approximately 1 in 3—have prediabetes. Periodontal diseases are mainly the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed. In its more serious form, called periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or even fall out. Periodontal disease is mostly seen in adults. Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the two biggest threats to dental health.
- 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.
- Periodontal disease increases with age, 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.
Diabetes is linked to Periodontal disease in many ways.
Oral Manifestations of Periodontal Disease and Diabetes
Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)
Cheilosis (cracking, drying of the lips)
Candidasis (fungal infection)
Cellular / Vascular Changes – (Hard Core Science)
I became a dentist because I love science. And this shows how science gets altered negatively speaking, with diabetes and periodontal disease. When there is diabetes there is vascular changes in the bloodstream. Hyperglycemia leads to collagen breakdown. Leading to a release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, impaired wound healing, decreased saliva, increase in bacterial microflora, decreased chemotaxis, decrease cellular changes leading to a decease in neutrophils, macrophages, and fibroblasts. These cells help keep the mouth healthy.
Treatment Modalities
- Periodontal treatment including scaling and root planing,
- At home treatment with Periodontal Trays inclusive of Peroxide Gel 20 min daily (Up to 2 x daily 20 min per day x 2)
- At home Doxycycline Regiment for 10 days
- Periodontist Consultation for Periodontal Surgery / Osseous Bone Surgery / If Necessary
- Meticulous Oral Hygiene – Brushing 4 min three times per day with an Ultra Soft Manual Toothbrush – Curaprox
- Flossing 2 minutes after each meal and 3 min AM / 3 min PM
- Rinsing 2 x daily with Colgate Swish for 30 seconds
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