Diabetes Medication Doubles As Gum Disease Cure
Diabetes can negatively affect gum health, but a new study suggests that diabetes medications might help repair some of that damage. Researchers in Japan found improvements in gum health markers after diabetic patients began taking diabetes medications.
Dr. Masae Kuboniwa, an associate professor of preventive dentistry at Osaka University and senior author of the study, emphasized the importance of early collaboration between medical and dental care in diabetic patients. This combined approach could help prevent and slow down the development of periodontal disease in people with diabetes.
The connection between gum health, heart disease, and diabetes has been recognized for some time. In this recent trial, 29 patients with type 2 diabetes underwent a two-week course of intensive diabetes medication treatment, without receiving any professional dental care during that period.
According to findings published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, the medication not only improved glycoalbumin levels, a marker for blood sugar control, but also reduced the Periodontal Inflamed Surface Area (PISA), a measure of gum inflammation. As gum health improved, overall body health showed signs of enhancement, including better blood circulation and reduced neuropathy.
Dr. Kuboniwa concluded that treating periodontal disease in diabetic patients requires a dual approach: effective diabetes management alongside periodontal care. The study’s findings may provide new insights into the relationship between diabetes and gum disease.
Discussion about this post