The Link Between Diabetes and Gum (Periodontal) Disease

NOVEMBER IS AMERICAN AND NATIONAL DIABETES MONTH: Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States. It can cause blindness, nerve damage, kidney disease, and other health problems if it’s not controlled.

One in 11 Americans have diabetes — that’s more than 29 million people. And another 86 million adults in the United States are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

The good news? People who are at high risk for type 2 diabetes can lower their risk by more than half if they make healthy changes. These changes include: eating healthy, increasing physical activity, and losing weight.

People who have periodontal disease present a much higher risk for diabetes, and once diabetes has been diagnosed, it is essential to keep periodontal disease in check. Dr. Koshki urges all of his friends, family and patients to see their physician for annual physicals including a screening for diabetes.

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