Medical Articles
Diabetes and Periodontal Disease
26.07.2026
In Japan, August 1st is widely known as “Teeth Are Life” Day. The catchphrase “For celebrities, teeth are life” was highly popular a while back, but even if you are not a celebrity, your teeth are undeniably important. In this article, we will discuss systemic diseases deeply linked to cavities and periodontal (gum) disease.
When it comes to oral health, periodontal disease and cavities are the most common issues. However, do you know what kinds of systemic conditions these oral problems are actually linked to? In fact, oral diseases are deeply connected to serious medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and pneumonia.
People with diabetes often experience dry mouth, which creates an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. Furthermore, because the glucose content in saliva increases, bacteria proliferate even faster, making it much easier to develop periodontal disease. Research shows that people with type 2 diabetes are 2.6 times more likely to develop periodontal disease than those without the condition.
Furthermore, individuals with periodontal disease are nearly three times more likely to suffer a heart attack than those with healthy gums. This occurs because periodontal bacteria travel from the gums through the bloodstream to the heart, causing inflammation in the blood vessel walls. This chronic inflammation accelerates atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which can trigger angina or a heart attack. In fact, large clusters of periodontal bacteria have been discovered within arterial plaques affected by atherosclerosis.
Additionally, when saliva containing periodontal bacteria accidentally enters the lungs via the bronchi, it can cause pneumonia. In the elderly, who are prone to accidentally inhaling saliva into their airways while sleeping, leaving periodontal disease untreated poses a severe risk of aspiration pneumonia, requiring extra caution.
As you can see, periodontal disease is deeply interrelated with systemic diseases; for instance, diabetes can worsen periodontal disease, and severe periodontal disease can likewise impair blood sugar control. Along with dietary improvements and exercise therapy for the prevention and management of lifestyle-related conditions like diabetes and heart attacks (myocardial infarction), the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease are also essential. Just as you make an annual physical exam a habit, it is highly recommended to make regular dental checkups a routine part of your healthcare as well.
Author Bio
Dr. Vivien
Medical Director/Family Medicine Specialist
After completing medical school in Moscow, Dr. Vivien gained clinical experience at a general hospital in Penang, Malaysia. She later served as a full-time physician at Batu Gajah Hospital in Perak and at a clinic in Selangor.
Since 2018, she has been with Hibari Clinic, where she currently serves as Medical Director and is dedicated to providing care for the local community. She has a strong interest in pediatrics and psychosomatic medicine, and values patient-centered care that respects each individual’s needs.