Type 2’s Fail in Their Oral Care

Type 2’s Fail in Their Oral Care: Diabetes study reveals despite higher risks most people with diabetes don’t change their oral care routines. As a result of unstable blood glucose levels, diabetes increases a person’s risk of developing serious complications from poor oral hygiene. A study found that two-thirds active diabetes patients have not changed their oral care habits since their disease diagnosis, and more than half said they have not been advised by their dentist or doctor to take extra care to brush, floss, or rinse daily. “The results of this study show the gulf that exists between perceptions and the connections between diabetes and oral health,” says Charles W. Martin, DDS. “Your dental health absolutely affects the control of your diabetes.” The study surveyed 800 people with diabetes, asking about their knowledge of what they considered “good” oral healthcare. Of those surveyed, about 75% considered their routines effective, although 60% reported using floss and rinse less than once a day. People with diabetes are more likely to have tooth decay problems, dry mouth, bone loss, tooth loss, and accelerated oral breakdown compared to those without the disease. dLife