Oral Health Lacking for Diabetes Patients

Poor oral health can lead to a greater risk of developing complications from type 2 diabetes, and problems such as inflammation from swollen gums can make diabetes worse, as well as having a negative impact on cardiovascular disease and oral cancer….

The research, which surveyed 229 diabetic adults and was published in the British Dental Journal, also claimed that a long history of poorly controlled diabetes could hasten the progression of gum disease, but that there was little awareness of a link between dental health and a worsening general health.

The survey revealed that just 13 percent of respondents realized that tender or swollen gums could be affected by their diabetes (and vice versa), while only 12 percent knew of a link between loose teeth and diabetes.

The report stated, “Dental and oral self-care tasks were rated as less important than other diabetes self-care tasks, such as taking prescribed medication or having regular eye checks.”

The Dental Association agreed that the research had added to the evidence of a link between oral health and general health and well-being, and that healthcare professionals needed to do more to alert people with diabetes to this risk.

Diabetes Care, July 2011