Recurrent Bleeding Gums Can Be a Warning Sign of Uncontrolled Diabetes

Many people dismiss blood on the toothbrush while brushing as usual, swollen gums or bad breath as ordinary dental problems. But diabetes can be hiding behind these gum problems.

Diabetes does not only raise blood sugar levels; it also affects the health of the mouth and teeth. Gum infection can often be a warning sign of uncontrolled diabetes.

However, a gum infection does not by itself mean a person has diabetes. But some symptoms can be dangerous to ignore.

Diabetes is a disease that affects various organs of the body. Alongside the eyes, kidneys and heart, the health of the mouth and teeth is not outside its reach. Uncontrolled diabetes in particular raises the risk of gum infection.

Our mouths contain countless bacteria. Food particles stuck to the teeth combine with bacteria to form a sticky layer called plaque. If it is not cleaned regularly, this plaque hardens and builds up like stone. As a result, inflammation or infection can appear in the gums.

When diabetes is uncontrolled, the body's immune system weakens. As a result, the body's natural defence against bacteria is hampered, gum infections can occur easily, and when an infection does occur it takes longer to heal.

If such symptoms persist for a long time, it is important to consult a doctor. Especially if gum infections recur, testing blood sugar levels should be considered.

If a gum infection is neglected for a long time, it can turn into periodontitis. In this disease, the gums around the teeth and the bone that holds the teeth are damaged. First the gums swell, then the gums can recede from the teeth and the bone at the root of the teeth begins to erode. At one stage the teeth start to loosen; without treatment there is also a risk of teeth falling out. In uncontrolled diabetes this problem can become more complicated.

Just as diabetes raises the risk of gum infection, long-standing gum inflammation can also make blood sugar control harder. In other words, the problem does not work from one side only. So alongside controlling diabetes, treating the gums is also important.

To keep teeth and gums healthy, brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and use dental floss to clean between the teeth. Have teeth and gums examined regularly by a dentist.

If the gums bleed, brushing must not be stopped; instead, clean the teeth in the correct way and take a doctor's advice. Antibiotics must not be taken on one's own.

Those who have diabetes must keep their blood sugar under control. Alongside that, the dentist must be told about the diabetes.

Bleeding gums do not necessarily mean diabetes. But if there are problems such as recurrent gum infections, loosening teeth or a dry mouth, the matter must be taken seriously. If necessary, diabetes can be confirmed through blood glucose and HbA1c tests.

Today, November 14, is World Diabetes Day. When diabetes is mentioned, people usually think of the eyes, kidneys or heart, but it is also important to know that its effects can fall on the teeth and gums as well. Oral health is part of the body's overall health, so to stay healthy, caring for the gums alongside the teeth is essential.