The presence of dangerous oral bacteria triggers inflammatory mediators which then activate the inflammatory response, resulting in an increased blood glucose level. Patients who have both diabetes and periodontal infection have a 6-fold worsening of glycemic control as the infection causes release of stress hormones, which worsens insulin resistance. This causes a rise in glucose levels and impairs the body’s ability to use glucose for energy.
Diabetics with periodontal infection have hyper-responsive monocyte/macrophage cells – resulting in increased inflammatory cytokines. This elevation produces higher levels of TNF𝝰 in response to the bacteria, as compared to non-diabetics. Diabetics also have decreased immune cell function, inhibiting adequate defense against periodontal bacteria.
FACT: Periodontal disease treatment can result in a 0.4% HbA1c level reduction.
The good news is that a 1% reduction in HBA1c level is associated with the following:
- 21% reduction of deaths related to diabetes
- 21% reduction of risk for diabetes-related illnesses
- 14% reduction in heart attack
- 37% reduction of microvascular infection
Periodontal disease treatment can result in a 0.4% reduction of HbA1c levels! Common forms of treatment options include scaling and root planing and periodontal trays.
