According to the National Institute Of Health, Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia due to either a deficiency of insulin secretion or resistance to the action of insulin or both. Diabetes is a disease that leads to different complications in the body and the oral cavity is no exception to that. People with uncontrolled diabetes are at higher risk of dental health problems.
Why does diabetes pose a problem for dental health?
High blood sugar encountered in diabetic patients is the connecting link between diabetes and dental health problems. If diabetes is not controlled within the limiting range, diabetic patients are prone to develop dental health problems eventually. And the reason behind this is that unmanaged diabetes weakens the immune system. This leaves the mouth defenseless against oral bacterial infections.
Oral Manifestations Of Diabetes
The oral manifestations and complications of diabetes mellitus include
• tooth decay (dental caries including root caries)
• dry mouth (xerostomia)
• periapical lesions
• periodontal diseases (gum disease) like gingivitis and periodontitis
• oral candidiasis and thrush
• burning mouth syndrome (glossodynia)
• taste dysfunction
• oral mucosal alterations like
- altered taste sensorium
- geographic tongue (benign migratory glossitis)
- coated and fissured tongue (scrotal tongue)
- pre-malignant lesions: oral lichen planus
- recurrent aphthous ulcers and stomatitis
• increased tendency to oral infections like fungal and bacterial infections
• poor and delayed oral wound healing
Oral manifestations in diabetic patients are considered to be one of the major complications which comprise the quality of life in patients. The degree and duration of hyperglycemia directly impact the intensity of diabetic complications. There is evidence that supports the claim that chronic oral complications in diabetic patients have a negative impact on blood glucose control too.
Oral Health And Hygiene Tips For Diabetic Patients
Diabetic people can avoid oral manifestations and complications by following some tips:
• Keeping their blood sugar levels in check
• Brushing and flossing at least twice daily, and rinsing the mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash.
• Visiting the dentist and getting dental checkups done as well as getting the teeth cleaned every 6 months.
• If the person is a denture wearer they should clean the denture daily and judiciously.
• If the person is a smoker they should entail the help of a dentist regarding quitting the habit.
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