Part Five "The Link Between Oral Health and Over-all Health" -Diabetes

This is part 5 of a fantastic series of articles explaining  the link between oral health and overall health. The article was written for dental professionals but really is great. So, please read through and remember to ask our team for any explanations that you may need.
Dr Brian Johnson

 Awareness of Diabetes’ Impact on Other Diseases

The incidence of diabetes is on the rise worldwide. Chronic systemic manifestations of diabetes are primarily seen in the vascular system, with specific issues related to the microvasculature including retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy. Oral complications of diabetes include gingivitis, periodontitis, xerostomia and consequently, caries. Diabetes is bi-directional, with uncontrolled diabetes leading to periodontitis and severe periodontitis impacting glycemic control.

A researcher at the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, used a written questionnaire to evaluate the attitudes and awareness of patients with diabetes. The 200 subjects were seeking care at the largest diabetic clinic in Benghazi, Libya. The questions related to oral health and oral care.

The majority of subjects, 71 percent, had Type 2 diabetes, with 18 percent reporting Type 1 and 11 percent unsure which type they had. Subjects ranged in age from 17 to 78 years and had diabetes from one week to 40 years.

Dry mouth was experienced by 84 percent of the group. Smokers accounted for 42 percent of the group. The majority had teeth, but 31 percent were edentulous with only 44 percent of them wearing full dentures. Only 17 percent brushed twice daily and only 12 percent reported daily flossing. The dentist was the primary source of information about oral complications of diabetes and oral care. Those reporting oral infections also had high glycemic control scores. Less than 50 percent were aware that dental diseases are complications of diabetes.

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Clinical Implications: Education is needed from both dental and medical professionals addressing the oral complications associated with diabetes and the importance of good oral hygiene and regular dental care.

  The author is Trisha O'Hehir, RDH, MS who is the Editorial Director at Hygienetown Magazine