Diabetics at Higher Risk For Gum Disease

More than 14 million Americans suffer from diabetes, while 6.2 million cases remain undiagnosed, according to the American Diabetes Association. And that number, experts say, may climb as high as 31 million by the year 2050.

Most diabetics understand the risks and complications associated with the disease. But one related condition that may not get much attention is gum disease.

“There is an increased risk for poor oral health in diabetics,” says Dr. Sol Silverman, professor of oral medicine at University of California, San Francisco. Silverman emphasizes the importance of diet and blood sugar control, good oral hygiene and maintaining moisture in the mouth for overall comfort and control of oral disease.

Saliva contains enzymes and proteins that help control the bacteria in the mouth to help prevent oral infections, dental decay and gum disease. Yet for those with diabetes, higher sugar levels in the blood and saliva encourage bacterial growth.

Dental researchers say there also may be a link between the oral condition xerostomia, or dry mouth, and the medications prescribed to treat diabetics. According to recent studies, three-fourths of those who suffer from diabetes also have high blood pressure, and most drugs used to treat hypertension can cause the salivary glands to produce less saliva.

Dryness can also be intensified by the use of other drugs, such as antidepressants and antihistamines.

For diabetics it is a vicious cycle, so it is important to use products specially formulated to treat gum disease and dry mouth. Biotene dry mouth toothpaste, mouthwash, chewing gum and Oralbalance moisturizing gel are especially made for these conditions.

Biotene oral care products contain salivary enzymes and proteins, which boost and replenish saliva’s defense system while inhibiting harmful bacteria growth, and fight the causes and effects of gum disease. They are alcohol-free and sugar-free, so they won’t irritate an already sensitive dry mouth. These products are all available over the counter.