Gum Disease and Diabetes
Learn how gum disease and diabetes affect each other. Dr. Jesse Lemoine explains how managing periodontal disease can help control blood sugar in Palm Beach Gardens.
Jan 20, 2026
The Vital Connection Between Gum Disease and Diabetes: What You Need to Know
At Gardens Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we view oral health as a window into your overall well-being. One of the most significant health links in modern medicine is the relationship between gum disease and diabetes. Research has shown that this is a "two-way street"—diabetes increases your risk of developing periodontal infections, and active gum disease can make it significantly harder to control your blood sugar. Under the care of our board-certified periodontist, Dr. Jesse Lemoine, we specialize in managing this complex intersection to protect both your smile and your systemic health in Palm Beach Gardens.
The Science of the Two-Way Street
For patients living with diabetes, the body’s ability to fight off bacteria is often compromised. High blood sugar levels can lead to a higher concentration of sugar in your saliva, which feeds the bacteria responsible for plaque and tartar. This creates a heightened diabetes gingivitis risk.
Inflammation: Periodontal disease is essentially a chronic inflammatory response. When your gums are infected, inflammatory chemicals enter the bloodstream, which can trigger insulin resistance. This means that even if you are watching your diet, untreated gum disease could be the reason your glucose levels remain high.
Periodontal Disease and Blood Sugar: Studies have indicated that successfully treating periodontal disease can actually lead to a reduction in HbA1c levels, similar to the effect of adding a second medication for diabetes.
Identifying the Symptoms in Diabetic Patients
Because the stakes are higher for diabetic patients, recognizing the early signs of infection is critical. At our Palm Beach Gardens office, we look for:
Chronic Inflammation: Gums that appear bright red, swollen, or feel tender to the touch.
Slow Healing: If you notice that a small cut in your mouth or a sore on your gums takes an unusually long time to heal, this is a hallmark of the diabetes-periodontal link.
Frequent Infections: Developing thrush (a fungal infection) or dry mouth (xerostomia), both of which are common in diabetics and contribute to gum decay.
Customized Dental Care for Diabetics
Managing your health requires a collaborative approach. Dr. Jesse Lemoine works with your primary care physician to ensure your periodontal treatment outcomes are optimized for your specific health profile. Our protocol for diabetic patients includes more frequent professional cleanings (often every three to four months) and deep cleanings known as scaling and root planing. These treatments remove the bacterial "biofilm" that triggers the inflammatory response. By keeping your mouth clean, we reduce the overall "inflammatory load" on your body, helping your insulin work more effectively.
Take Control of Your Health at Gardens Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry
If you are living with diabetes, specialized periodontal care is not an elective—it is a necessity for your long-term health. At Gardens Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we have the expertise to help you navigate the challenges of gum disease and diabetes. Let Dr. Jesse Lemoine and our dedicated team help you protect your smile and stabilize your health. Contact our Palm Beach Gardens office today to schedule a periodontal evaluation and experience the benefits of integrated, expert dental care.
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