In the latest addition of the Journal of the American Dental Association they summarized the findings at a recent meeting of top experts in the dental and diabetes research community around the world. They found that in comparing with those with healthy gums, people with severe gum disease
– have higher long-term blood sugar levels (A1c);
– might be at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes;
– may be at a higher risk of developing pregnancy (gestational) diabetes;
– have a harder time controlling their type 2 diabetes;
– are at a higher risk of experiencing harm to eyes and kidneys, as well as a heart attack and stroke if they have diabetes.
Here is the link to the actual article: http://jada.ada.org/content/144/7/860.full.html?etoc