Berlin (ots) – Periodontitis is a chronic, inflammatory disease of the periodontium, but affects the entire organism. The risk of developing periodontitis is three times higher in diabetics than in non-diabetics. Conversely, untreated periodontitis even worsens diabetes. The German Dental Association (BZÄK) refers to this on the occasion of World Diabetes Day on November 14th.
Periodontitis is a widespread disease that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss in the long term and have serious health consequences. Scientifically proven connections exist primarily with diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. Periodontal preventive and therapeutic measures therefore have great potential for general health.
“Periodontitis usually develops unnoticed over many years. If it remains undetected and untreated, gingival pockets develop in which harmful bacteria can multiply,” says Prof. Dr. Christoph Benz, President of the German Dental Association. “Subsequently, a bacterial infection can not only attack the tissue and the jawbone, but also break it down – it leads to tooth loss. The focus of inflammation also has far-reaching effects on the whole body. Diabetes and periodontitis influence each other. The periodontal inflammation intensifies the insulin resistance of the cells and adversely affects blood sugar levels. ”
Diabetics should therefore consult their dentists regularly and, in addition to checking their teeth, also have their teeth holding apparatus examined. Particularly good oral hygiene is also important.
“Periodontitis is a real and serious disease, but it can be prevented very well,” said Benz.
background
Every second younger adult (35 to 44 year olds; 52 percent) in Germany is affected by periodontal disease, almost two thirds of younger seniors (65 to 74 year olds; 65 percent) and nine out of ten older seniors (75 percent) up to 100 year olds). Source: Fifth German Oral Health Study (DMS V)
Press contact:
Dipl.-Des. Jette Krämer-Götte, phone: +49 30 40005-150, email: [email protected]
Original content from: German Dental Association, transmitted by news aktuell
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