Could gum disease be an early indicator of type 2 diabetes?

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It is well-known that diabetes increases your risk of health problems, including gum disease, but new research has added substance to the notion that gum disease can also be an early indicator of type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is often linked to lifestyle factors, and it occurs when the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels. Common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination and mood swings; however, new research conducted in Amsterdam suggests that gum disease may also be a sign. The study, which has been published in the BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care journal, claims that periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease, is more common among people who are suspected of having diabetes.

In a study involving 313 patients at the University of Amsterdam’s dental school, 78 were found to have advanced gum disease (periodontitis), 126 had mild-moderate gum disease and 198 people had no signs of gum disease. Twenty-three percent of those in the group with severe gum disease were suspected to having diabetes, compared to 14% in the moderate group and 10% in the group, which displayed no signs of gum disease.

The study author suggested that the research indicates that severe gum disease can be a warning sign for type 2 diabetes. Researchers also found that those who had advanced gum disease were also more likely to be overweight and to have high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

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