Diabetes and Gum Disease

Study Notes

Diabetes and Gum Disease

Diabetes and gum disease have a bidirectional relationship, meaning each can worsen the other.
Uncontrolled blood sugar in diabetics increases the risk and severity of gum disease.
High glucose in saliva serves as food for harmful bacteria, leading to plaque, calculus, and gum problems.
An HbA1c level between 42-53 mmol/mol is considered ideal, while levels above 58 indicate a higher risk of gum disease.

Smoking and Gum Disease

Smoking worsens gum disease, resulting in increased bone loss and a higher risk of tooth loss.
Nicotine reduces blood flow, causing smokers to have pale, thicker gums that bleed less and heal slower.
Smoking stains teeth, causes bad breath, and increases the risk of cavities due to decreased saliva production.

Pregnancy and Gum Disease

Hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly increased progesterone, can lead to pregnancy gingivitis.
Pregnancy gingivitis causes gums to become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding.
Severe inflammation can lead to a pregnancy epulis, a sensitive lump that bleeds easily.

Medications and Gum Disease

Medications alone do not cause gum disease, but their use combined with plaque presence can worsen it.
Calcium channel blockers like amlodipine, the epilepsy drug phenytoin, and the immunosuppressant cyclosporin can contribute to gum overgrowth.

HIV and Gum Disease

HIV weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of severe gum disease and oral infections.
Common oral issues in HIV-positive individuals include severe gum inflammation, painful ulcers, and fungal infections.
Regular dental care and good oral hygiene are crucial for managing these risks.

Description

This quiz explores the relationship between diabetes, gum disease, smoking, and pregnancy. Learn how these factors influence oral health and the importance of managing blood sugar levels and hormonal changes. Test your understanding of how lifestyle choices impact gum condition.