Other major risk factors for periodontal disease include genito-urinary infections, smoking and excessive alcohol drinking.

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Dr Iacopino said more research was needed, particularly into whether the risk of diabetes decreases when periodontal disease is treated.

BBC: 'Bad teeth' link to diabetes

Regular tooth brushing for cats and dogs reduces the risk for periodontal disease as well as costly dental procedures.

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And he said lowering cholesterol levels could also help healthy people not to develop periodontal disease, which could then lead to diabetes.

BBC: 'Bad teeth' link to diabetes

Dr Iacopino said high cholesterol, or lipid, levels, rather than the way the body deals with glucose, was the risk factor for people who are already diabetic developing periodontal disease.

BBC: 'Bad teeth' link to diabetes

If you are removing it for prevention of tooth decay or periodontal disease such as gingivitis, which destroys the root and makes the teeth fall out then I believe it's best at night.

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