The hidden message of gum disease.  If your dentist says you have periodontal disease, you may have an even more serious problem: diabetes.  In a recent study of 2,923 adults from NYU College of Dentistry and Nursing, 93% of those who had periodontitis were at high risk for diabetes, compared with just 63% of those without it.  The culprit may be inflammation, says lead researcher Shiela M. Stauss PhD.  If you’re diagnosed with gum disease, get a blood sugar test.  Diabetes is often symtomless, but the earlier it’s discovered, the easier it is to prevent long term complications.