Q.
Hi Dr Dunn, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes around 1 year ago which was a big shock. I have heard a few times that gum disease and diabetes are linked somehow? Do you know anything about this? My gums are very red and sore, bleeding occasionally but I have good hygiene in my mouth, clean 2 times a day and floss!! Is there any special medicine or toothpaste I can take for my problems? or what do you suggest? Cheers thank you Ian.
Hi Dr Dunn, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes around 1 year ago which was a big shock. I have heard a few times that gum disease and diabetes are linked somehow? Do you know anything about this? My gums are very red and sore, bleeding occasionally but I have good hygiene in my mouth, clean 2 times a day and floss!! Is there any special medicine or toothpaste I can take for my problems? or what do you suggest? Cheers thank you Ian.
A.
The like between gum disease and diabetes is well established in that we know we see more gum problems in diabetics. The key thing is diabetic control. As an poorly controlled diabetic you are around 3 times more likely to have gum disease but as a well controlled diabetic the risks are no greater than a non-diabeti, so the key is looking after yourself and gaining glycaemic control.
The like between gum disease and diabetes is well established in that we know we see more gum problems in diabetics. The key thing is diabetic control. As an poorly controlled diabetic you are around 3 times more likely to have gum disease but as a well controlled diabetic the risks are no greater than a non-diabeti, so the key is looking after yourself and gaining glycaemic control.
You do need to see a dentist and find out why your gums are sore and bleeding as obviously this is not normal.
Regarding medicine or toothpastes, from a gum disease point of view, the important thing is to have professional attention i.e your teeth assessed and cleaned and the toothpaste you use is largely irrelevant.
Dr Ian Dunn
PurelyPerio Clinic 334, PO Box 334, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 0AG Web: www.purelyperio.co.uk Tel: 01625 419700
