Smiling, speaking, eating, and emoting are all actions we complete with the help of our mouth. Yet, despite its importance, we can sometimes take its health for granted. Currently, approximately 3.5 billion people across the globe are impacted by mostly avoidable oral diseases, such as oral cancers, tooth decay, and gum disease (1). These diseases have implications that stretch far beyond the mouth and impact our overall health and well-being. Gum disease and diabetes are one example of how mouth health can have far reaching effects (2).
At its core, gum disease involves the tissues around the teeth becoming infected and inflamed (1-3). It can range from mild disease called gingivitis to more severe disease called periodontitis (3). Depending on the type of gum disease, symptoms can include pain, bad breath, swollen gums, bleeding, gums looking as if they’re moving away from the teeth, and tooth loss (1-3). Interestingly, diabetes can play a role in the development of gum disease and having gum disease can elevate blood sugar levels (2-5). This is a concern for those living with diabetes, as blood sugar control is vital for diabetes management (2).
Given this relationship, can treating gum disease (in this case periodontitis) help people living with diabetes manage their blood sugar levels? Let’s turn to a systematic review looking at the effects of periodontitis treatment, which involved professional deep cleaning below the gumline and was sometimes combined with instructions on proper oral hygiene or additional treatments like medications for infections. Here periodontitis treatment was compared to no treatment or usual care, which included standalone or combined strategies like cleaning above the gumline and oral hygiene instructions or support (2).
What the research tells us
The review found that periodontitis treatment can produce important decreases in blood sugar levels in people living with both diabetes and gum disease. These benefits are seen three to four months following treatment and can be maintained for up to one year. The potential for treatment side effects was rarely assessed in the studies included within the review, so no comment can be made on this issue at this time (2).
Ultimately, these findings further cement that taking care of your oral health is vital to optimal aging. This means brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Luckily, accessing dental services in Canada, including certain treatments for gum disease, is now easier for older adults with no access to dental insurance through the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Learn more about who qualifies here and what services are covered here (4).
